German Mulled Wine – Glühwein

Learn how to make homemade German mulled wine with this easy-to-follow recipe to warm up this winter with a mug of the best spiced ginger mulled wine!

Mulled wine is one of the most, if not even the most, popular hot drinks during Advent and Christmas. Sure thing, this comfort drink makes the freezing cold season just a little more bearable, especially when enjoyed within social gatherings, friends, or family.

Here in Europe, mulled wine is the highlight for most while strolling through the Christmas market. One of many reasons why German mulled wine, or Glühwein as we call it, is so popular. 

Unfortunately, the warm spiced wine you can get at the Christmas market is often not freshly prepared but flows rather from the tetra pack. So it’s always a gamble, yet most don’t taste as delicious as they could, which is also a pity for the money you pay.

Therefore, I highly recommend trying this homemade mulled wine recipe. It’s so delicious, features the most delightful winter spices, is affordable, and is easy to make.

You have to stick to only one rule: never boil your homemade mulled wine, only bring it to an almost light simmer and cook on low heat. Otherwise, the alcohol evaporates – which, we all agree, would be quite a pity! 🙃

I love to add some freshly sliced ginger while cooking the red wine. Ginger mulled wine is my favorite version!

Advantages of homemade mulled wine:

• Very delicious!
• Made from scratch with spices and fresh oranges!
• You can adjust the sweetness to your taste!
• You can choose the bottle of red wine yourself!
• Can be prepared ahead of time!
• Better for your wallet!
• Crowd-Pleasing – Can easily be prepared in larger quantities!

Traditional German mulled wine is usually made without liquor. But some like to add a shot of rum, brandy, or amaretto to the finished ginger mulled wine. 

Best Red Wine For Mulled Wine

The base for red mulled wine is red wine. Here in Europe, we also serve white mulled wine, which is made with white wine and usually a little sweeter.

It is recommended to use semi-dry red wine such as a Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Tempranillo. I usually go for a semi-sweet Tempranillo.

In terms of price, a mid-range bottle of wine will do. However, stay away from very cheap wine, as this will result in a loss of flavor. Keep in mind that red wine is the basis and makes up for most of the taste.

Ingredients

• Red Wine → The basis!
• Orange & Apple → Adds beautiful fruity flavors. You will use orange slices, orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
• Ginger → Thanks to its essential oil, it provides a warm, spicy and sweet aroma.
• Mulled Wine Spices → Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, cardamom pod, and star anise give the mulled wine its Christmas flavor.
• Maple Syrup → Adds some sweetness. Adjust the amount to your liking. Can be substituted by a sweetener of your choice. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

This visual step-by-step instruction will help you along the way – definitely recommended if you’re a cooking beginner!

• Wash the oranges, then slice one orange into rounds. Zest the second orange, then squeeze out its juice.
• Place all ingredients in a large pot and cook it over medium heat until it just barely reaches a simmer. Immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes. → Avoid letting it bubble — you don’t want to boil off the alcohol.

• Pour the mulled wine through a fine-mesh sieve and serve warm in your favorite mug! Feel free to sweeten with more maple syrup or add a shot of rum, brandy, or amaretto.

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

Pour the finished mulled wine into a glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can easily be prepared in advance!

Reheat in a small pot (only to a light simmering) and enjoy warm!

More Winter Comfort Drinks You’ll Love

• Lemon Ginger Turmeric Tea
• Lemon Apple Ginger Shot
• Homemade Chai Tea Latte
• Mexican Cafe de Olla

📖 Recipe