Create the ultimate festive Mulled Wine. This recipe delivers warm spice and cozy holiday spirit with simple steps for your next gathering.
Author:Ben Androshov
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:5-6 servings
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:European
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine
1/4 cup brandy (optional)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
2 cinnamon sticks
8 whole cloves
1 star anise
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
1/2 teaspoon whole allspice berries
Instructions
Combine the red wine, brandy (if using), sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange slices, lemon slices, and allspice berries in a large saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium-low heat. Do not allow the wine to boil. Boiling will cook off the alcohol and change the flavor.
Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the wine is hot, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, for deeper flavor.
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Strain the wine through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and fruit before serving.
Serve warm in mugs. Add a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick to each mug for garnish.
Notes
Use a medium-bodied, inexpensive red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with cranberry or grape juice.
If you prefer less spice flavor, reduce the steeping time.
You can substitute molasses or maple syrup for granulated sugar.