Gluhwein recipe is a hot german wine that is enjoyed in Europe, usually during cold winter months, and during Christmas. It's like Christmas in a cup! A Mulled wine is the popular English name for this drink, but it has many names across the world.
One of my first jobs I ever had was working at the local ski hill, in a Swiss restaurant. After a long day of skiing in the freezing cold, people would come in to warm up with a glass of Gluhwein, and sit beside a roaring fire. You could smell the Gluhwein wafting throughout the air all day. A welcoming smell for your guests! A perfect way to warm up from the inside out.
Mulled Wines Around the World
It's thought that mulled wine was made by the Romans, and spread throughout the Roman empire. Here are some common names from spiced wines from around the world.
- Glögg from Nordic countries
- Quentão from Brazil
- Vin Chaud from France
- Graze Wino from Poland
- Глинтвейн (Glintwein) from Russia
Best Wine for Gluhwein
Any red table wine will work for this Mulled Wine recipe like Merlot, Pinot Noir or your favorite lighter or medium bodies wine. Don't spent a lot of money on the wine, as the spices will overshadow any of the delicate notes in the wine. You can also use fruit wines like cherry wine, or blueberry wine.
Mulled Wine Spices
Great thing is that you don't need to have any fancy spices when making a Gluhwein recipe, you probably have these in your pantry. Feel free to add your favorites and make this recipe your own!
- cinnamon sticks
- whole cloves
- star anise
- citrus zest (or citrus slices)
- nutmeg (but will need to strain through cheesecloth if adding this spice)
- cardamom
How to Make Hot Mulled Wine
The most important thing to remember when making Gluhwein is to slowly heat the wine, without boiling. Pro tip: When the mulled wine has simmered, you can transfer it to your coffee pot to keep warm.
- Pour the wine and all the ingredients into a pot.
- Allow to simmer over a very low heat for about 10 minutes. Don't allow it to boil.
- Strain the Glühwein from infused before serving.
- Serve hot, garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy.
Adding Alcohol to Mulled Wine
You can add a shot of liquor to your mulled wine, especially if it starts to reduce in volume. It's your choice what you would like to add. Here are some suggestions.
- White Rum
- Brandy or Cognac
- Vodka
Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine
A non-alcoholic version of mulled wine is also enjoyed in Germany. It's called Kinderpunsch and is often served for children. You could use a variety of juices like apple juice and cherry juice to mull with spices. Alternatively, you could substitute with a non-alcoholic red wine sold in most supermarkets.
Glühwein Recipe Tips and FAQs
- Low and Slow - Don't allow the Gluhwein to boil but gently warm
- Mesh Tea Strainer - Use a metal mesh tea strainer when pouring your glasses to strain spices (like when making loose leaf tea)
- Cheesecloth - If using citrus zest and nutmeg, you will need to strain your Gluhwein through a cheesecloth before serving
- Add Spirits - try Triple Sec, Cointreau, White Rum or even Vodka
- Add Fruit! - Try sliced apples, throw in a few frozen blackberries or frozen cherries
- Water - If simmering for a few hours, add 2 cups of water to keep your wine volume
Can You Make Gluhwein in Slow Cooker
Yes, you can also use slow cooker to make mulled wine. Just add your wine, spices and citrus into the slow cooker. Set on low and allow to steep for about 1½ hours before serving.
What to Serve with Gluhwein
Gluhwein is the perfect drink to serve with appetizers like Baked Brie with Cranberries, cheese platters, charcuterie or a Swiss Cheese Fondue. Also just great to enjoy on it's own.
How to Serve Mulled Wine
Hot Mulled Wine is served in ceramic mugs or cups. They also look great in heat resistant glass cups like mason jars or fancy crystal cups. Don't serve them in traditional wine glasses.
It's a perfect drink for the holidays or during the cold winter months. Hot german wine has a delicious spiced aroma will fill the whole house. Try my Hot Blueberry Tea Cocktail for another winter warmer! Wherever you are on the globe, enjoy this Gluhwein recipe! Prost and Bon Appetit! Приятного аппетита!
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1 small orange sliced
- juice of an orange
- 2 quills cinnamon
- 5-6 whole cloves
- 1 star anise optional
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 cup of water
Instructions
- Pour the wine and all the ingredients into a pot, and allow to simmer over a very low heat for about 10 minutes. Don't allow it to boil.
- Strain the Glühwein before serving. Serve hot and enjoy in moderation.
Notes
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