Spiced Mulled Wine

Spiced Mulled Wine

As the holiday season approaches and the cold weather sets in, nothing says warmth and coziness like a cup of hot spiced mulled wine. This classic drink has been around for centuries and continues to be a crowd favorite at holiday parties. Our recipe includes organic apple cider, dry red wine, Eastern Shore Honey, hearty spices, and citrus, making it a delicious and comforting choice for any occasion. In this blog post, we'll share the history behind this popular drink, the best wine for mulled wine, and how to make it yourself at home. 

Hot Spiced Wine Recipe

If we dig back into history, we learn that spiced mulled wine dates back to the second century. The Roman soldiers mixed honey with wine and then slowly heated the mixture. As the mixture was heated, they added hearty spices like pepper and bay leaves to warm their bodies in the dead of winter. It was also a method to keep wine and fresh spices from spoiling. Since they couldn’t necessarily drink water, wine was a must. As the Romans conquered Europe, mulled wine became increasingly popular and spread throughout the European regions.

Known as a vin chaud recipe in France and gluhwein in Germany, today it works in much the same way. When crisp autumn nights roll around, and you want something to warm you up and take the edge off, something a cup of tea can’t do, try this spiced mulled wine recipe.

The best wine for mulled wine is a dry red wine, such as Malbec or Syrah. These wines are full-bodied and bold, able to hold up against the heat, spices, and cider. You'll need apple cider, preferably organic, and Eastern Shore Honey, which will add a touch of sweetness to balance out the spices. You can choose your favorite honey varietal from our selection to create a more personalized flavor. As for the spices, we recommend a handful of fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and orange and lemon peel and slices.

Why You'll Love This Vin Chaud Recipe

This recipe for mulled wine is easy as can be, making it perfect for entertaining. Not only is it a fun way to warm up, but it also contains comforting flavors perfect for any holiday party. Mulled wine has the perfect balance of tart cranberry, apple cider, sweet honey, and bold red wine. Plus, the aroma of the spices will fill your home and create cozy atmosphere.

  • This recipe for mulled wine is easy as can be
  • Perfect for entertaining
  • A fun way to warm up if you are of age
  • Full of comforting flavor

Ingredients & Substitutions

Apple Cider - Organic is best!
Dry Red Wine - In our opinion, the best wine for mulled wine is Malbec or Syrah
Honey - Peruse our many varietals and choose your favorite
Citrus Fruits - You'll need oranges and lemons
Cranberries - Pick up a bag of fresh
Spices - Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and fresh rosemary provide much of the flavor!

overhead: spiced mulled wine in a pan with fruit around it

How to Make Hot Spiced Wine

Now, onto the recipe. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, wine, honey, and spices. Heat on medium-high heat until it starts to bubble, then lower the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes. Make sure not to boil the mixture, as it will evaporate the alcohol. Once the wine is heated through and the flavors have melded, serve hot in mugs with herbs, cinnamon sticks and sliced fruit for garnish.

Step One: Combine the ingredients

Add the cider, wine, honey, cinnamon sticks, zest, juice, cranberries, cloves, and star anise to a large saucepan and mix.

adding the best wine for mulled wine to pan

Step Two: Heat it up

Bring all ingredients to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.

closeup: boiling cranberries for vin chaud recipe

Step Three: Serve and enjoy

Pour into glass mugs, add an orange peel to each and serve with cinnamon stick and rosemary sprig.

adding orange garnish to mug for recipe for mulled wine easy

Adapting Our Spiced Mulled Wine

Make this recipe yours. If you feel creative or prefer a different kind of wine or a different combination of fruits that may be more readily available at your farmers market, we say GO FOR IT. Play with your food. Change up this recipe. Have a little fruit and spice with your wine. Here are some ideas:

  • Try adding a little ginger flavored brandy or fresh sliced ginger to this recipe.
  • Try adding a little cinnamon schnapps
  • Make this recipe in advance and serve it chilled.
  • Orange blossom honey pairs well with the added fruit and spices

This recipe for mulled wine is easy, and is perfect if you're interested in trying your hand at it this holiday season. Make spiced mulled wine that rivals any professional chef with just a few simple ingredients. And don’t forget the spices! A mix of cloves, cinnamon, allspice, bay leaves, and orange peel will give your mulled wine that characteristic flavor everyone loves. 

Mulled Wine FAQs

What is the Best Wine to use for making Mulled Wine?

We suggest using a dry red wine, such as Syrah or Malbec. You could also use a Cab or Merlot. The key is to use a wine that's robust enough to withstand the addition of spices and sweeteners while maintaining its character. Choosing a wine with flavors of dark berries and hints of spice can enhance the overall taste of the hot spiced wine too.

How Long Should I Simmer Spiced Mulled Wine?

To allow the flavors to meld together, simmer the mulled wine on low heat for about 15 minutes. You can leave it for longer if you'd like, but be careful not to boil the wine, as it can affect the taste and texture and evaporate the alcohol. 

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, mulled wine can be made in advance and reheated when needed. In fact, allowing the flavors to blend overnight can enhance the taste. After preparing it, let it cool, strain out the spices, and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, being careful not to boil it.

hot spiced wine in a mug with orange and rosemary garnish

Consider serving mulled wine as an accompaniment to your Thanksgiving Feast, including cranberry relish and stuffed sweet potatoes, and carmelized pears.

Spiced Mulled Wine for Chilly Autumn Nights and Holiday Entertaining

Spiced mulled wine is a must-have at any holiday party. This classic drink has been around for centuries and has spread throughout the world, each region adding their own twist. With only a few ingredients and a simple recipe, anyone can enjoy a warm and comforting cup of mulled wine at home. Whether you're looking to warm up after a long day or to entertain guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab a bottle of red wine, some apple cider, and Eastern Shore Honey, and get ready to cozy up with a cup of hot spiced wine.

If you decide to make this recipe or any variation we’ve suggested or your take, why not take a photo and share it with us using #beeinspired on Instagram? We love seeing your photos!

titled image (and shown): holiday entertaining spiced mulled wine

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