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Mulled white wine is a spicy and aromatic warm drink served on Christmas or other holidays. Nothing screams more Christmas as a warm cup of the best homemade mulled wine. Even though it looks fancy, it is super easy to make.

Mulled white wine is a perfect holiday drink made of good quality wine, citrus fruits, spices, and a touch of honey. It is no surprise that this simple drink is everyone’s favourite due to its aroma and light consistency. I adore Gluhwein both red and white as they gather together strength, spices, aromas, and a delicious drink. You can check my Traditional Gluhwein recipe here.

I love winter and its holidays. I love when all the family gathers together and enjoy a cup of this delicious mulled wine. The air is so magical and unique that you want nothing more than these moments to last forever. Some special Christmas cookies will only make the table look more festive and gorgeous.

Even though this warm drink dates back to the 2nd century, it became popular not so long ago. Romans used to heat wine to warm their bodies on cold winter days. This tradition spread through all Europe, then through the entire world. Today, we have this special mulled wine to enjoy and drink.

I love this simple but so flavorful drink. It is easy to be drunk, smells amazing, and looks nice and fancy. I love to add more citrusy fruits to make it more aromatic and special. But, it is very personal. For example, my mom uses to make it too pungent and spicy, while I make it less spicy but more aromatic.

Mulled wine spreads an irresistible aroma through all my house. Cinnamon, oranges, and cloves’ aroma are never too much in my house. It is always festive and not too flamboyant to serve this simple, but nice looking mulled wine.

What kind of wine is best for mulling?

Well, here the line is endless. You can either use red qualitative wines such as Merlot, Shiraz, French good wines, or white ones such as Pinot Grigio, or fruity wines. My choice for today was a Muscato aromatic wine, but the end call is definitely yours. If you are planning a big batch then you can opt for less expensive wine. The spices and citrusy fruits you add changes the wine’s aroma very much, so avoid too expensive white wines.

Is there any alcohol in mulled wine?

Mulled white wine is a wine drinker so definitely it has alcohol. Various mulling spices, citrus fruits, and even raises are added to the hot wine while it is boiling. It has less alcohol than the ordinary white wine as it boils it tends to lose its strength.

What’s the difference between mulled wine and Gluhwein?

If speaking about my recipes then there are big differences between mulled wine and Gluhwein.

When I make Gluhwein at home I try to make it pungent and strong, while a mulled white wine is made of more citrusy fruits and more aromas. Also, for the Gluhwein, I use only red wine, while for mulled wine I use only white good wine.

Can you reheat mulled wine?

If you have some leftover then you can easily pour it in an airtight jar and freeze for up to 3 days. Gently rewarm the mulled wine in a saucepan over low heat and serve immediately.

I never have leftovers as my family simply adores mulled wine. So I try to make the amount we drink to avoid leftovers.

What temperature should mulled wine be served?

A mulled wine is called that way because of the heated wine infused with spices and sugar. So, it is a warm drink to be served right away. Boiling will drive off most of the alcohol, but keep in mind that it has a lower boiling point than water. So when it is boiling, switch off the stove and serve immediately in nice glasses to conserve the heat. If speaking about temperatures than 140F or 60C is the best temperature to serve mulled wine.

What about rum, brandy, and other add-ins?

A shot of rum or brandy is just perfect to mulled wine. It adds aroma, strength, and deep flavour. A shot is okay to one bottle of wine.

In Europe, a shot of rum is one of the best options, other countries may opt for cognac or orange flavoured liqueurs.

Some versions offer to add orange juice or water to make it more drinkable. I never add these ingredients as I love to enjoy the authentic wine’s taste.

How to make mulled white wine?

Making a hot mulled wine at home is simply a pleasure and a nice aroma. This drink is magical as it instantly reminds you about Christmas and the magic air in the whole house. I love making it for my family and I try to make it the best.

The ingredients:

1 bottle of dry white wine

2 big sweet oranges

1 lime

1 lemon

Cinnamon sticks

10-star anise

Cloves

1 shot of brandy

1/2 cup of honey

Start by slicing rounds of oranges, lemon, and limes.

Take a saucepan and pour the white wine. Pour the shot of brandy, add the slices of oranges, lemons, and lime. Add the honey and whisk well until all the ingredients are incorporated.

Over a low-medium heat put the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Cook the mulled wine until it boils. Lower the heat and leave it to simmer for 5-7 minutes more. Taste and adjust the taste at your preferences. In case it is too pungent simply add more honey or sugar.

Remove from the heat and serve it right away.

Tips…

You can make a mulled wine with red wine, as well. Here you have to adjust the sweetness as the red one is drier and aromatic.

Use any citrus fruits you like from clementines, oranges, limes, or even apples.

I prefer to serve it hot and right away, however, it can be stored overnight in an airtight jar. Just strain the fruits and store just the liquid when it is cooled down.

Adding brandy is optional, but a shot of rum/brandy is must if taking into consideration my advice.

Spices here are also endless as you can use or skip anyone you like or dislike. Nutmeg or cardamom is also a great choice here as they simply smell irresistible.