Classic Glühwein Recipe: Cozy Mulled Wine for the Perfect Winter Night

There’s nothing quite like holding a steaming mug of Glühwein on a cold winter’s night. My first introduction to this mulled wine was during a holiday market visit while traveling through Germany. The air was crisp, lights twinkled overhead, and the aroma of cinnamon and cloves drew me in before I even saw the stand. Ever since, I’ve been recreating that magic at home with my own version of this cozy winter drink. Glühwein isn’t just a beverage; it’s a hug in a cup, perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet nights by the fire.

Table of Contents

• About Classic Glühwein Recipe
• Why You’ll Enjoy This Glühwein Recipe
• Key Ingredients
• How To Make Classic Glühwein Recipe
• Have It Your Way
• Nutritional Facts
• Health Benefits
• Other Recipes You’ll Love
• Classic Glühwein Recipe Recipe

About Classic Glühwein Recipe

Glühwein, pronounced “gloo-vine,” is a traditional German mulled wine that’s especially popular during Christmas markets across Europe. The name translates to “glow wine,” a nod to the warm glow it gives on cold evenings. Its origins trace back to medieval times when spiced and sweetened wines were used to mask imperfections in less-than-perfect vintages. Over the centuries, it’s evolved into a festive favorite that embodies the holiday spirit.

For us, making Glühwein has become a cherished holiday tradition. We love experimenting with spices and flavors, tweaking it slightly every year to keep things fresh. It’s not just a drink; it’s a chance to gather, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Glühwein Recipe

• Simple to Make: You don’t need fancy ingredients or equipment—just a pot and a few pantry staples.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spices, or even swap out the wine for a non-alcoholic version.
• Festive & Comforting: It’s the perfect drink to serve at holiday parties or while wrapping presents by the fire.
• Aromatic Bliss: Your home will smell like a cozy holiday dream as it simmers on the stove.

Key Ingredients

• Red Wine: A dry or semi-dry wine works best as the base. Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Cabernet Sauvignon are excellent choices.
• Fresh Oranges: Sliced for both flavor and garnish, bringing brightness to the mix.
• Cinnamon Sticks: The quintessential spice for a warm, festive aroma.
• Whole Cloves: Add depth and a hint of spice.
• Star Anise: Optional but adds a beautiful licorice note.
• Brown Sugar or Honey: For sweetness—adjust to taste.
• Brandy or Rum (Optional): For an extra kick and added warmth.

How To Make Classic Glühwein Recipe

1. To a large sauce pan over low medium heat, add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves. Toast until fragrant.

2. Add 1/4 cup water, and agave nectar to be infused with spiced.

3. Add Cabernet Sauvignon, orange sliced, and grated nutmeg. Then bring to a simmer. DO NOT BOIL!

4. Turn off the heat and add 1 cup of Brandy or Rum.

5. Strain the Gluhwein in a glass garnish with orange slices, and enjoy!

Have It Your Way

• Alcohol-Free Version: Swap the wine for a mix of cranberry juice, apple cider, and a splash of pomegranate juice.
• Spice Variations: Add cardamom pods, ginger slices, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Fruit Additions: Toss in cranberries, apple slices, or pomegranate seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Sweeter Touch: Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a hint of caramel sweetness.

Nutritional Facts

While this recipe is more about indulgence than nutrition, here’s a quick snapshot per serving:

• Calories: ~150 (varies based on sweetener and alcohol content)
• Sugar: ~10g
• Vitamin C: From the oranges, offering a small immune boost during cold weather.

Health Benefits

• Spices for Immunity: Cinnamon, cloves, and star anise contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Warmth & Relaxation: The combination of warmth and wine helps to relax muscles and improve circulation.
• Citrus Perks: Oranges provide a boost of Vitamin C, perfect for warding off winter sniffles.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Manhattan
• Campari Margarita
• Butter Pecan Old Fashioned
• The Siesta Cocktail
• Cranberry Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

Classic Glühwein Recipe Recipe

Classic Glühwein Recipe: Cozy Mulled Wine

Berry Berry Life

Warm up with this classic Glühwein recipe, a traditional German mulled wine perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights. Easy, customizable, and packed with festive flavors!

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 4 glasses

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• ▢ 1 Cinnamon Stick
• ▢ 2 Star Anise
• ▢ 5 Cloves
• ▢ ¼ Cup Water
• ▢ 2 Tbsp Agave Nectar
• ▢ 750 ml Cabernet Sauvignon
• ▢ 1 Cup Brandy/Rum
• ▢ 1 Orange sliced into rings
• ▢ ¼ tsp Nutmeg

Instructions

 

• To a large sauce pan over low medium heat, add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves. Toast until fragrant.
• Add 1/4 cup water, and agave nectar to be infused with spiced.
• Add Cabernet Sauvignon, orange sliced, and grated nutmeg. Then bring to a simmer. DO NOT BOIL!
• Turn off the heat and add 1 cup of Brandy or Rum.
• Strain the Gluhwein in a glass garnish with orange slices, and enjoy!

Notes

• Don’t Boil the Wine: Keep the heat low to preserve the alcohol and prevent a bitter taste.
• Prep Ahead: Combine the ingredients (except the alcohol) in advance, and heat up when ready to serve.
• Serve Warm: Use mugs or heat-resistant glasses for the best experience.
• Garnish Ideas: Add orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or even a sprig of rosemary for a festive presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1GlassCalories: 250kcal

Keyword 15 minutes, Holiday, Wine

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