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Mulled Wine Recipe

Mulled wine is the easiest way to serve a crowd on a cold night: one bottle of red, some citrus and spice, and a low heat. It makes the whole house smell like the holidays.

  • Prep5 min + 20 min heat
  • Makes6 servings
  • GlassHeatproof mugs
  • BaseRed wine
Two glass mugs of mulled wine with orange slices, cinnamon and star anise beside a saucepan and pine branches

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (750 ml) fruity red wine
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise
  • 2–4 tbsp (30–60 ml) honey or sugar, to taste
  • Optional: 1 oz (30 ml) brandy or orange liqueur

Method

  1. Pour the wine into a saucepan and add the orange slices, spices and honey.
  2. Warm over low heat for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don't let it boil, or the alcohol and flavours will cook off and it can turn bitter.
  3. Taste and add more honey if you like it sweeter. Stir in the brandy, if using.
  4. Ladle into heatproof mugs, leaving the spices behind.

Tips & variations

  • Use an inexpensive, fruity, low-tannin red, such as Grenache, Merlot or Zinfandel. Save the special bottle for dinner.
  • Keep it warm on the lowest setting of a slow cooker for a party.
  • For an alcohol-free version, use cranberry or grape juice with the same spices. Kids and drivers can enjoy it too.

Photo is illustrative.

Please enjoy responsibly. One standard drink is 43 ml (1.5 oz) of spirits. Know your pours, eat something, and plan a safe ride home.

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