What Is Mulled Wine (Glühwein)? History & How to Make It
Discover the Flavoursome and Festive Drink, perfect for cold and dark winter days.
What’s Mulled Wine & Why is it a Popular Choice for Winter?
Warmth: Mulled wine is served warm, which can help to warm you up on a cold day. The warm temperature can also be soothing and comforting, making mulled wine a great drink to enjoy by the fire or while snuggled up with a blanket.
Flavour: The spices and sweeteners used in mulled wine give it a delicious and complex flavour. The warmth of the drink can also help to bring out the flavours and aromas of the spices, creating a rich and satisfying experience.
Festive: Mulled wine is often associated with winter holidays and festive gatherings. Drinking it can help to set a cosy and celebratory mood, making it a great drink to enjoy with family and friends.
Customizable: Mulled wine can be made with a variety of different spices and sweeteners, which allows you to customise the drink to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different types of wine to find the perfect combination of flavours.
Alcohol Content: Mulled wine typically has a lower alcohol content than straight wine or other alcoholic drinks, which makes it a good option for those who want to enjoy a warm and comforting drink without getting too tipsy. Unless you add a splash or port, brandy or other spirits (once brewed) to spice it up a little…
What is Mulling Wine?
Mulling wine is the process of heating wine with a variety of spices and sweeteners to create a warm and flavourful beverage. The practice of mulling wine dates back Centuries, and it is a popular winter drink in many cultures.
To mull wine, you typically start with a dry red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. You then add a variety of spices, such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Sweeteners such as sugar, honey, or maple syrup can also be added to taste. Some recipes also call for citrus fruits like oranges or lemons to be added.
Once the ingredients have been added to the wine, the mixture is gently heated over low heat. This allows the flavours of the spices to infuse the wine, creating a warm and flavourful beverage. It’s important not to let the wine boil, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate.
Mulled wine is often served hot and can be garnished with additional spices, citrus slices, or a cinnamon stick. It is a popular drink during the holiday season and is often enjoyed at parties or gatherings with family and friends.
Where Did Mulled Wine Originate?
The practice of mulling wine dates back to the Roman Empire, where heated wine was consumed to ward off the cold. As the Romans travelled across Europe, they introduced this tradition to various regions, each adapting it with local spices and customs.
What Ingredients Are in Traditional Mulled Wine?
A classic mulled wine recipe typically includes:
- Red wine (dry varieties like Merlot, Shiraz, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Star anise
- Orange slices or zest
- Sugar or honey
- Optional extras: nutmeg, vanilla pods, cardamom
These ingredients are gently heated together to allow the flavours to meld.
What does mulled wine taste like?
The taste of mulled wine is generally warm and spicy, with a sweetness that balances the wine's dryness. The specific flavour profile can depend on the exact recipe and ingredients used, but it is often described as having notes of cinnamon, cloves, and orange.
Overall, mulled wine is a cozy and comforting drink that is perfect for cold weather and holiday celebrations. It is often served hot, which adds to its warming and soothing qualities.
Can Mulled Wine Be Reheated?
Yes! Store leftover mulled wine in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring it doesn't boil to preserve the flavours and alcohol content.
What’s the Best Wine to Use?
In Australia, cask wines like Dolce Rosso are popular choices due to their affordability and sweetness, which reduces the need for additional sugar. However, any red wine can be used, depending on your taste preferences.
What are the Health Benefits of mulled wine?
Mulled wine may offer some potential health benefits when consumed in moderation. One of the key health benefits of mulled wine is its antioxidant properties. Red wine is known to contain antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health. The spices used in mulled wine, such as cinnamon and cloves, also contain antioxidants, which may further enhance the drink’s health benefits.
Another potential health benefit of mulled wine is its ability to boost the immune system. Many of the spices used in mulled wine, such as ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Drinking mulled wine during the winter months may help to ward off colds and flu and support overall immune system function. Additionally, the warm temperature of the drink may help to soothe a sore throat or cough.
It’s important to note that while mulled wine may offer some potential health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation…
What is Mulling Wine?
MULLED WINE NAMES
A popular winter beverage enjoyed around the world when the temperature drops. It’s known by many different names depending on the country or region. Here are a few of the more popular mulled wine names.
1) Glüehwein – This is the German name for mulled wine, and it translates to “glowing wine.” The name comes from the heated irons that were used to warm the wine in the past, which would make it glow.
2) Vin chaud – This is the French name for mulled wine, which translates to “hot wine.” It is a popular drink during the winter months and is often enjoyed at holiday markets and other festive events.
3) Glogg – This is a Scandinavian version of mulled wine that typically includes additional ingredients such as almonds, raisins, and brandy. It is a popular drink during the Christmas season in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
4) Spiced wine – This is a common name for mulled wine in English-speaking countries, and it simply refers to wine that has been heated with spices and sweeteners.
5) Wassail – This is an old English tradition that involves drinking a spiced beverage called wassail, which is made from mulled wine or cider. The name comes from the Old English phrase “waes hael,” which means “be in good health.”
There are many different names for mulled wine, each specific name and recipe can vary depending on the region and cultural traditions...
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Mulling Wine Kit Recipe4 Simple Steps to SUCCESS, using a Mulled Wine Spice Kit Step 1: Open the mulled wine kit, then drop the spiced teabag into the slow cooker or rice cooker. Step 2: Open the bottle or cask, then pour the wine into the cooker. Step 3: Turn on the cooker, then set on low for 4 – 5 hours (stirring & tasting occasionally) Step 4 ENJOY with family or friends! It’s seriously that easy... Check out our Mulled Wine Kit |
Where Can I Get a Mulled Wine Kit?
Empathy Herbal offers a convenient mulled wine spice kit containing a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, star anise, red ginger, white turmeric, and coconut sugar. Available in 50g and 100g sizes, these kits make it easy to prepare mulled wine at home.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Absolutely. Substitute red wine with grape juice or apple cider and follow the same mulling process. This creates a family-friendly beverage that retains the warm, spiced flavours.
Why Is Mulled Wine Popular During the Holidays?
Mulled wine is synonymous with festive gatherings and holiday markets. Its warm, spiced aroma evokes a sense of comfort and celebration, making it a staple during the colder months.
CONCLUSION
Mulled wine, or Glühwein, is more than just a drink; it's a tradition that brings warmth and joy during the winter season. Whether you're enjoying it at a festive market or in the comfort of your home, this spiced beverage is sure to delight.
