History of Mulled Wine
Mulled wine (also known as hot wine or spiced wine) is a traditional holiday drink in many European countries, and also in America. The roots of traditional mulled wine can be traced back to Romans in the 2nd Century BC, first being recorded in a play by Plautus. It was the drink of choice during cold, bitter winters, especially during battles throughout Europe. Roman soldiers on campaign during the winter months would heat up wine and add spices and herbs to improve taste and boost their health. Mulled wine became a winter drink of choice for people as far as Scotland and the Scandinavian countries due to Rome’s influence. There is even a mulled wine recipe from 1390 includes cinnamon sticks, ginger, galangal, cloves, long pepper, nutmeg, marjoram, cardamom, and grains of paradise (or rosemary).
Mulled Wine Today
Its popularity continued to grow over Europe and now goes by many names. In Sweden, it earned its name as a glögg. In Germany, it’s known as glühwein; and in Croatia, it’s kuhano vino. These days, we commonly make mulled wine with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and warm spices. Whatever the name, its association with Christmas turned it into a popular holiday drink. Every European Christmas Market has their own version of mulled wine, with unique combinations of herbs and spices.
Mulled White Wine
While most people think of red wine when they hear “mulled wine”, it can also be made with white wine. Typically, when making mulled wine with a white wine base, you use cloves, star anise, and cardamom. People also sometimes add extra liquor, like brandy, and winter fruit such as orange slices, cranberries, and others.
Although it may be centuries old, homemade mulled wine is a classic that is sure to bring warmth and joy to any holiday gathering this winter season. Keep reading to see our absolutely delicious and easy mulled wine recipe that everyone is sure to love. You can serve it from the stovetop or keep it warm in a crock pot to enjoy all day long at your holiday party.
Good Ole Mulled Wine
Equipment
- Red Wine
- Copper Wine Cup
- Crockpot or saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 750 mL bottle of red wine we recommend Cali Love Wine
- 12 oz Martinelli's apple juice
- 1 orange
- 1 satchel mulling spices or any mulled spice blend
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
Instructions
- 1. Over medium heat, pour your favorite red wine into the crockpot or saucepan.
- 2. Add 12oz. of apple juice.
- 3. Cut the orange and squeeze juice into the pot. Add the rest of the whole orange into the pot.
- 4. Add dark brown sugar.
- 5. Turn up heat to medium-high. Keep simmering. Do not let boil.
- 6. Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Continue to simmer for 10 minutes.
- 7. Remove the satchel and orange. Gently squeeze the satchel to get some juice out.
- 8. Serve warm and enjoy.
Final Note on Mulled Wine
Heat in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting and serve in a wine cup with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and fresh cranberries for garnish for a truly special holiday drink that looks as good as it tastes.
Recipe courtesy of Cali Love Wine
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