Mulled wine

What is Mulled wine?

Mulled wine is a hot beverage where red wine is gently heated with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes ginger or cardamom. Orange or lemon peel and sugar or honey are often added for sweetness and aroma. The drink is usually deep red, with a fragrant, spicy scent and a warming taste. It is served in mugs or heatproof glasses, sometimes garnished with a slice of orange or studded with cloves. Non-alcoholic versions use fruit juices instead of wine.

Where does Mulled wine come from?

The practice of spicing and heating wine dates back to ancient Rome, with the earliest mention in a 2nd-century BC Roman play. As Romans spread through Europe, they brought wine and their recipes with them. In medieval England, mulled wine appears in cookbooks such as The Forme of Cury from 1390. Over centuries, different regions developed their own versions, adapting the spices and methods to local tastes and customs.

How is Mulled wine made?

To make mulled wine, red wine is combined with spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, and sometimes star anise or cardamom. Citrus peel, such as orange or lemon, and sweeteners like sugar or honey are added. The mixture is gently heated, not boiled, to allow the flavors to infuse. Some recipes add spirits such as rum or brandy. In some countries, fruit wines or white wine are used. Non-alcoholic versions use fruit juice instead of wine.

How and when is Mulled wine eaten?

Mulled wine is most often enjoyed in winter, especially at Christmas markets and festive gatherings. It is served hot, usually in small mugs or glasses. In Nordic countries, it is paired with gingerbread cookies, sweet saffron buns, or rice pudding. In Germany and France, it is a staple at Christmas markets. In Brazil and Chile, it appears at winter festivals. It is sometimes offered in non-alcoholic form for children or those avoiding alcohol.

Kinds of Mulled wine

Many countries have their own names and recipes for mulled wine. In Germany, Glühwein is made with red wine, spices, and sometimes a shot of liquor. In the Nordic countries, glögg is served with raisins and almonds, and may include vodka or brandy. In France, vin chaud is flavored with honey and orange. Brazil’s quentão adds cachaça, while in Poland, vodka may be added. White wine or fruit wine versions exist, and non-alcoholic punches are common.

What Mulled wine means

Mulled wine is closely tied to winter and Christmas traditions across Europe and beyond. It is a symbol of warmth and festivity at Christmas markets and seasonal gatherings. In Sweden, it is served on Saint Lucia’s Day and at the Christmas buffet. In Brazil, it is part of Festa Junina. The drink appears in literature and film, such as in Charles Dickens’ works and the movie 'It's a Wonderful Life.' It brings people together during cold months.

When Mulled wine is on the table

Questions people ask about Mulled wine

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• BBC - Victorian Christmas - Activities - Make Your Your Own Victorian Wassail PunchBBC, Article
• How to make perfect mulled wineThe Guardian, Article

• Mulled wine on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data