Best when served hot or warm, this traditional Christmas drink is the warming beverage we love to cozy up to in the fall and winter. This longstanding drink dates back to ancient Roman times where they would warm up their wine with spices to keep them warm in the winter cold. Heated and spiced wine has now evolved throughout time to include different medleys of flavoring, including ginger, pepper, cardamom, and even herbs. This classic drink recipe uses red wine, traditional warming spices and brandy to create the perfect holiday drink to serve a crowd (or just yourself, no judgement here!).
What is mulled wine?
Mulled wine is warm drink created by simmering red wine with a variety of warming spices, and this recipe couldn’t be easier to make: Combine a bottle of red with some orange slices, warm spices, honey, and brandy, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. THAT’S IT. In less than 30 minutes you’ll have the coziest winter drink on your hands.
What kind of wine should I use for mulled wine?
Personally, we like using dry varietals of red wine like Merlot, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon. But really, your favorite bottle, whatever it may be, should work!
Do I have to use brandy?
Nope! If you don’t like brandy, or don’t want to buy a bottle, skip it—all the other components will be lending plenty of flavor to every sip.
Not quite ready for this super cozy drink and want to sip on something cooler? Try our red wine sangria or red wine mules instead.
Have you made this recipe? Let us know how you liked it in the comments below.