How to make mulled wine: an easy recipe and the best wine to use

Nothing says winter like a warm glass of mulled wine. It fills the house with the smell of oranges and spice, and it’s perfect for bonfire night, Christmas parties and cold afternoons. It’s also incredibly easy to make. Here’s our go-to recipe, plus tips on which wine to use.

Which wine should you use?

You don’t need an expensive wine for mulled wine, as the spices and sugar will mask subtle flavours. But it’s worth using something you’d happily drink on its own. A cheap, harsh wine will still taste harsh.

Look for a fruity, unoaked or lightly oaked red with soft tannins. Good choices include:

• Merlot: smooth and plummy. Try Bear & Star Merlot.
• Grenache or Côtes du Rhône: warm and spicy. Try Our Selection Côtes du Rhône Villages.
• Tempranillo: soft and fruity. by Amazon Spanish Tempranillo 3L is perfect for a big batch.
• Malbec: juicy and generous. Try Our Selection Mendoza Malbec.

Avoid heavily oaked or very tannic reds, which can taste bitter when heated.

Classic mulled wine recipe

Serves 6

• 1 bottle (75cl) fruity red wine
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4–6 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 50–75g light brown sugar or honey, to taste
• A grating of nutmeg
• 50ml brandy or port (optional)
• 250ml water or apple juice (optional, for a lighter drink)

Method

1. Put the wine, orange slices, spices and sugar in a large saucepan.
2. Heat very gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Keep it just below a simmer for 10–15 minutes so the spices infuse. Don’t let it boil. Alcohol starts to evaporate well below boiling point, and boiling can make the wine taste bitter.
4. Taste and add more sugar if needed.
5. Add the brandy or port, if using, just before serving.
6. Ladle into heatproof glasses or mugs, leaving the whole spices behind.

Tips for the best mulled wine

• Low and slow: gentle heat is the key to a smooth, well-balanced drink.
• Stud an orange: pressing cloves into a whole orange looks festive and stops cloves floating in the drink.
• Add port for richness: a splash of Cockburn’s Special Reserve gives extra depth and fruit.
• Make it ahead: mulled wine can be made a few hours in advance and gently reheated.
• Use a slow cooker: perfect for parties, keeping it warm without boiling.

White mulled wine

For a lighter, more delicate drink, use a fruity, unoaked white like Chenin Blanc or Riesling, with apple juice, honey, lemon, vanilla and ginger. by Amazon South African Chenin Blanc works nicely.

Ready-made mulled wine

Short on time? Ready-made mulled wine just needs warming up. Lyme Bay Mulled Wine is made in Devon with real spices, and Schmitt Söhne Glühwein is the traditional German version.

Non-alcoholic version

Use red grape juice or a mix of grape and cranberry juice, with the same spices and orange. It’s a lovely option for drivers and children.

What to eat with mulled wine

Mince pies, gingerbread, Christmas cake, roasted chestnuts and cheese straws are all perfect.

FAQs

Can you reheat mulled wine?

Yes, gently. Avoid boiling it.

How long does mulled wine keep?

Leftovers keep for two to three days in the fridge.

Does mulled wine still contain alcohol?

Yes. Gentle heating reduces the alcohol only a little, so serve responsibly.

Looking for more festive ideas? Read our guides to the best Christmas wines and sweet wines for Christmas.