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Perfect Mulled Wine Recipe: From Kitchen to Cozy in 30 Minutes

A festive and aromatic mulled wine recipe that combines red wine, citrus, and warming spices for the ultimate cozy winter drink perfect for holidays or quiet evenings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: European
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bottle of red wine 750ml – Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Shiraz
  • 1 large orange sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 fresh lemon sliced
  • 2 –3 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 –5 whole cloves
  • 2 –3 star anise
  • ¼ cup sugar or honey adjust to taste
  • 1 cup apple cider optional
  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • Optional garnish: orange slices fresh cranberries, apple stars, extra cinnamon sticks

Method
 

  1. Combine wine, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and nutmeg in a large non-reactive saucepan.
  2. Add sugar or honey and stir to dissolve.
  3. Warm gently over medium heat, avoiding boiling to preserve alcohol and flavor.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness or add a splash of brandy if desired.
  6. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or a heatproof pitcher to remove solids.
  7. Serve warm and garnish with orange slices, cranberries, or a cinnamon stick.

Notes

Keep heat low to prevent boiling. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute grape juice or pomegranate juice for wine. Use whole spices for cleaner flavor extraction.