Warm your winter evenings with the rich, aromatic allure of homemade Mulled Red Wineβa comforting blend of dry or semi-dry red wine infused with fragrant spices and citrus. This classic holiday drink combines the robust flavor of red wine with the cozy warmth of cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise, sweetened to perfection with honey or sugar. Fresh orange slices and a splash of vanilla extract enhance its vibrant, spiced aroma, while a hint of optional brandy adds depth and complexity. Gently simmered to perfection in just 20 minutes, this festive beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet nights by the fire. Serve it steaming hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange, and let its intoxicating fragrance set the mood for the season.
Pour the water into a medium-sized saucepan and place it over medium heat.
Slice the orange into thin rounds and add them to the saucepan.
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and cardamom pods to the saucepan.
Stir in the honey or sugar and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
Lower the heat to low and slowly pour in the red wine. Ensure the heat is gentle so the wine does not boil, preserving its flavor and alcohol content.
Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
Allow the mixture to gently heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together.
If using brandy, stir it in just before removing the mixture from heat.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the mulled wine through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the orange slices and spices.
Serve the mulled wine warm in mugs or heatproof glasses, optionally garnished with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice.
Calories |
1112 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.2 g | 4% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 77 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 104.4 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.8 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 69.2 g | ||
| Protein | 4.7 g | 9% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 303 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 1472 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.