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Drinks/European

Mulled Wine Recipe

Warm up with our aromatic mulled wine, bursting with citrus and spice. Perfect for cozy evenings.

40 min total
Serves 6
Easy
VeganVegetarianGluten-FreeDairy-Free
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
40 min
Mulled Wine Recipe
Photographed for KrazyRecipes · Drinks
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Imagine walking into a room where the air is heavy with the scent of cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, all mingling with the deep, fruity notes of red wine. There's something incredibly comforting about mulled wine, a drink that seems to wrap its arms around you and whisper that everything is going to be alright. This recipe is inspired by those chilly nights that call for something toasty and satisfying. Mulled wine has a rich history, with its roots tracing back to the Roman times when wine was often heated and spiced to preserve it during long travels. My own version comes from hours spent experimenting with spices during cold winters, trying to capture that perfect balance of warmth and flavor. What makes this particular recipe special is the addition of a touch of honey for subtle sweetness and a hint of vanilla extract for complexity. The secret, though, lies in being patient. Letting the wine mull gently over the heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, filling your home with their inviting aroma. Serve this mulled wine at your next holiday gathering, or enjoy it on a quiet evening in. It's the kind of drink that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for any cozy occasion.

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The Method

Step-by-Step

6 steps · tap a timer to start
  1. 01
    Step 1 / 6

    Pour the red wine into a large pot or saucepan.

    Add the sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

  2. 02
    Step 2 / 6

    Set the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

    Avoid letting it boil to preserve the alcohol content.

  3. 03
    Step 3 / 6

    Stir in the honey and vanilla extract, allowing them to dissolve completely.

    Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

  4. 04
    Step 4 / 6

    Reduce the heat to low and let the wine simmer gently for 20-30 minutes.

    This allows the spices to infuse deeply.

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  6. 05
    Step 5 / 6

    Add the brandy and stir to combine.

    Heat for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

  7. 06
    Step 6 / 6

    Strain the wine into mugs, discarding the spices and orange slices.

    Garnish with fresh cranberries if desired.

Chef Tips

  • Choose a wine that's fruity and full-bodied, but not too expensive.
  • For a stronger spice flavor, let the mixture infuse longer before adding the brandy.
  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with grape juice and skip the brandy.
  • Keep the heat low to maintain the alcohol and avoid bitterness from overcooked spices.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or a splash of simple syrup to taste.
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Nutrition (per serving)

calories
~180 kcal
protein
0g
carbs
20g
fat
0g
fiber
1g
sodium
5mg

Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.

Frequently Asked

Can I make this ahead?+

Yes, you can make this ahead of time. Simply reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute?+

You can substitute the honey with sugar or agave syrup. Swap brandy with whiskey for a different twist.

How do I store leftovers?+

Allow the wine to cool, then transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

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