Gløgg (208)

The warmth of winter: A journey through the world of mulled wine

Mulled wine, also known as Glühwein or Glögg, is an essential part of the winter traditions of many cultures around the world. This delicious hot beverage transforms the cold winter days into cozy moments of warmth and community. Let us embark on a journey through the world of mulled wine, from its history to the various types and preparation methods.

The history of mulled wine

The history of mulled wine dates back to ancient Rome. Back then, spiced wine was made from warm wine, honey, and spices to warm people during the cold months. While the Romans were the pioneers of mulled wine, the tradition later spread across Europe through monasteries during the Middle Ages. The monks found that mulled wine was a perfect way to warm the body in the cold while simultaneously preserving wine. Over the centuries, different countries developed their own variations of mulled wine.

Mulled wine – year after year the warming drink for frosty days

So off we go into the cold season, with a mulled wine, red or white, spiced and ready to heat up. But be careful: Do not heat above 80 °C. This is so important; we’ll say it again: Do not heat above 80 °C! Otherwise, the alcohol escapes, and the flavor suffers too. Mulled wine is essential for cozy winter days and nights, pleasing both family and friends. So buy mulled wine, heat it (at most 80 °C), and celebrate a legendary Christmas market.

Taste of mulled wine

The taste of a dark red mulled wine traditionally comes from fine red wine, peels of a ripe orange or lemon, cloves, cinnamon, star anise, and sugar. Sweet and fruity, with a touch of pastry. Furthermore, creativity knows no bounds. Vanilla, coriander, and mace flowers give mulled wine a refreshing kick. White mulled wines made from fine and sweet white wine are becoming increasingly popular and are just as delicious.

Beware: The demand for hot mulled wine is so high that quality suffers due to the large volume. Mediocre red wine is mixed with sugar and juice to mask the lack of quality. Our selection of vegan organic mulled wine and Winzer mulled wine does not include such additives. At VINELLO, you will find high-quality mulled wines from exquisite and ethically responsible vintners.

The basic ingredients

The basic ingredients for mulled wine are wine, spices, and often some sweetening agent. Here are the main components:

1. Wine: Red or white wine is the base for mulled wine. The choice of which type to use depends on personal preference. In Germany, for example, red wine is often used, while in Scandinavia and the UK, white wine is frequently preferred.

2. Spices: The spices give mulled wine its characteristic aroma. Commonly used spices include cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger, and orange peels. These spices are added to the hot wine, providing it with a spicy, aromatic note.

3. Sweetening agents: To make the mulled wine a bit sweeter, one can add sugar, honey, or fruit juice. The amount of sweetening agent can vary depending on taste.

Different varieties of mulled wine

There are numerous variations of mulled wine that differ from country to country and even from region to region. Here are some of the most well-known:

1. German mulled wine: In Germany, mulled wine is an integral part of the Christmas market. Typically, red wine is used, spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and orange peels. It is often served with a shot of rum or amaretto.

2. Scandinavian Glögg: Glögg is particularly popular in Sweden and Norway. It usually contains red wine and a mixture of spices such as cardamom and cloves. Nuts and raisins are often added, and it is served hot.

3. British Mulled Wine: In the UK, red wine is often used with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is also common to mix in orange juice or apple juice for a fruitier flavor.

Tips for preparing mulled wine

When preparing mulled wine, there are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Do not use expensive wine: Since the wine is heated and seasoned, there is no need to use an expensive wine. A cheaper wine will usually do just as well.

2. Do not boil: The mulled wine should never boil, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate and degrade the aroma. It should only be hot enough to activate the spices.

3. Allow to steep: Let the mulled wine steep for a while after heating so that the flavors can fully develop.

Mulled wine is a beverage that warms the hearts of people in the cold winter months. Whether you enjoy the German tradition of the Christmas market or savor a sip of Glögg in Sweden, mulled wine is an essential companion during the cold season, reflecting the history and diversity of cultures.

Red mulled wine recipe

A good mulled wine depends on the choice of wine, which forms the basis. A dry Spätburgunder or Dornfelder provides us with everything we need. For our mulled wine recipe, we bring the Spätburgunder from the Kilian Hunn winery to temperature. Caution: Never let it boil!

Additionally, we need:

• 1 organic orange
• 4 tablespoons of flower honey
• 4 cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise
• 1 vanilla pod

We heat the wine in a pot to about 78 °C. The wine should not boil at all – this causes the alcohol to escape and makes the wine bitter.

Now you can add the spices and orange slices to the pot. Remove the pot from the heat and let it steep for 1–2 hours.

Then reheat the mulled wine, taste, adjust seasoning if necessary, and enjoy.

Have you tried it? Mulled wine is also available in white, rosé, and non-alcoholic varieties. Check out our VINELLO.magazine and discover more delicious recipes.

Our VINELLO mulled wine recommendation and offers

White Winzer mulled wine Herrenhaus Feuerzauber 1.0 l - Lergenmüller

The traditional Lergenmüller winery, which produces not only really great wine but also a mulled wine, enchants gourmets on chilly days. With Feuerzauber, this winery, active for over 400 years, has managed to create a top-notch white mulled wine with exquisite character. A taste like no other – yet to be matched. The Winzer mulled wine arrives ready to drink and with a fine sweetness. Available as a red mulled wine too. Also enjoyable chilled.

Red organic mulled wine – Hot Stag

Organic, vegan, and incredibly tasty. The Hot Stag conquers the Christmas markets of the nation and satisfies eager palates and cold hands. Get authentic and delicious red mulled wine from the pack from the Black Forest for your home. Noble Merlot from organic cultivation, refined with selected ingredients and a generous portion of self-confidence. It will also impress your taste. Follow the trail – hot stags are in circulation.

If you don't like mulled wine in liquid form, you can try our recipe for mulled wine cake!

Buy Winzer mulled wine offers cheaply online

Winter is just around the corner, just like your shivering friends who would surely not reject a quality mulled wine. Discover how exquisite mulled wine can be and order your favorite, either as a single bottle or in a wine package, at VINELLO. Shop securely and benefit from insured and climate-neutral delivery. We send your bottles safely to wherever you want and offer numerous payment options. Choose your favorite mulled wine and survive the dark season with a sweet quality mulled wine. Or whenever you want. Your choice, your mulled wine, your wine merchant VINELLO.