Hot Mulled Wine (Gluhwein)

As the days grow shorter and the winter weather sets in, there’s nothing more inviting than a hot mug to warm up cold hands. Cider, tea, and cocoa are all good bets, but nothing can match the appeal of mulled wine (also known as glühwein). The drink is a staple beverage at German and British Christmas markets, where patrons brave sub-freezing temperatures to stroll through picturesque, open-air holiday bazaars. No one mulled wine recipe is the same as the next, and ingredients often depend on personal preference. Some recipes call for dried orange peel, while others require fresh lemon juice. Mulling spices vary from recipe to recipe – cloves, star anise, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom are among the most common mulling spices. No matter the recipe, any version of hot spiced wine transforms a simple bottle of red wine into a festive, aromatic drink that completes any cozy night at home or holiday soirée. With the help of The Spice Hunter Mulling Spices, hot mulled wine is particularly simple to make. Cinnamon chips, orange rind, cinnamon and orange oils, whole allspice, and cloves produce a traditional mulling spice blend that hits all the flavor notes essential to classic mulled wine: sweet, citrusy, and aromatic. To prepare this festive beverage, combine red wine, vermouth, and a bit of sugar or honey to bring out the bright, sweet flavors in the hot wine. Place the mulling spices in a tea infuser or cheesecloth or pour the mulling spices directly into the saucepan and strain before serving. Enjoy the delicious spiced aroma filling your home as the mulled wine heats on the stove. If you’re catering to kids, The Spice Hunter Mulling Spices are a delicious, alcohol-free addition to hot cider. For a more modern take on this classic adult beverage, use mulling spices to craft Mulled Cranberry Cocktails. Mulling spices can even add Christmasy flavor to Holiday Poached Pears.