Easy & Aromatic Mulled Wine

Nothing says cozy winter evenings like a warm mug of homemade mulled wine gently simmered with spices, citrus, and herbs. This classic spiced wine is infused with ginger, orange slices, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, and raw sugar, creating a beautifully balanced drink that feels festive yet comforting.

Perfect for Christmas gatherings, New Year celebrations, or a quiet night in, this easy mulled wine recipe comes together in under 20 minutes and fills your home with the most inviting aroma.

What Is Mulled Wine?

Mulled wine is a traditional warm beverage made by heating red wine with aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetener. Popular across Europe during winter and festive markets, it’s known for its deep flavors and soothing warmth.

This version uses simple, easily available ingredients and focuses on gentle simmering to preserve the wine’s richness while allowing the spices to shine.

Ingredients & Their Role

• Red Wine
  Forms the base of the drink. Choose a dry or semi-dry red wine for the best balance of flavor without excessive sweetness.
• Fresh Ginger
  Adds warmth and a subtle spicy kick that enhances the depth of the wine.
• Orange Slices
  Bring natural sweetness and a bright citrus note that balances the spices beautifully.
• Cardamom Pods
  Lend a slightly floral, aromatic complexity to the mulled wine.
• Cinnamon Stick
  Provides warmth and sweetness, making the drink instantly festive.
• Cloves
  Add intensity and depth; a little goes a long way.
• Fresh Rosemary
  Introduces a mild herbal note that makes this version unique and fragrant.
• Raw Sugar
  Sweetens the drink gently while keeping the flavors rich and rounded.

Why You’ll Love This Mulled Wine Recipe

• Easy to make with minimal prep
• Perfect for winter and festive celebrations
• Aromatic, warm, and comforting
• Customizable sweetness and spice level
• Great for entertaining guests

This homemade mulled wine is a simple yet elegant drink that brings warmth, comfort, and festive cheer to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding on a chilly evening, this spiced wine recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share how you served it and what spices you loved most.

Mulled Wine

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 5 mins Cooking Time: 15 mins 15 mins

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

• 750 ml Red wine

• 1-inch Ginger, sliced

• 1 Orange, sliced

• 2-3 Cardamom pods

• 1/2 Cinnamon stick

• 4–5 cloves

• 1 Star Anise

• 1 Sprig rosemary

• 2–3 tablespoons raw sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Add the wine to a saucepan
   Pour the red wine into a heavy-bottomed pan and place it on low heat.

2. Add spices and aromatics
   Add ginger, orange slices, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, rosemary, and raw sugar.

3. Gently heat, do not boil
   Let the mixture warm slowly for 15–20 minutes. Keep the heat low to prevent the alcohol from evaporating.

4. Taste and adjust
   Adjust sweetness or spices if needed.

5. Strain and serve
   Strain into mugs or glasses and serve warm. Garnish with an orange slice and rosemary sprig if desired.

6. Serve mulled wine warm in heatproof glasses or mugs. It pairs beautifully with festive bakes, cheese boards, roasted nuts, or holiday desserts.

Notes

• Never let the wine boil; gentle heat is key

• Use whole spices for a cleaner flavor

• Adjust sugar depending on how dry your wine is

• For stronger spice flavour, lightly crush the cardamom pods

Did You Make This Recipe?

Have you made this recipe? Tag me on Instagram at @VanillaTrails and use the hashtag #MadeWithVanillaTrails.