Description

A simple, forgiving, and aromatic spiced mulled wine recipe featuring red wine, orange, cloves, and star anise. Perfect for autumn evenings and easy to make on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Spanish Rioja)
1 large orange, sliced into rounds
1 medium lemon, sliced into rounds
1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced into thin coins
2–3 whole star anise pods
6–8 whole cloves
1 large cinnamon stick (or 2 small ones)
1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/4 cup (50g) dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional, e.g., Cointreau, Triple Sec)
2 tablespoons brandy or bourbon (optional)

Instructions

Wash the orange and lemon thoroughly. Slice the orange into thin rounds (about 1/4-inch thick) and slice the lemon similarly. Peel and slice the ginger into thin coins.
In a small bowl, combine the star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and black peppercorns.
Pour the entire bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Add the sliced oranges, lemons, ginger, and the spice mix.
Add the brown sugar and orange liqueur (if using). Stir gently with a wooden spoon to help dissolve the sugar.
Turn the heat to medium-low. Heat the wine gently until small bubbles break the surface occasionally. Do not let it boil.
Simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. Taste after 15 minutes and adjust sweetness or spice if needed.
If using brandy or bourbon, stir it in now.
Place a fine-mesh strainer over a pitcher or mugs. Ladle the hot wine through the strainer to remove fruit and spices.
Serve immediately in mugs or heat-proof glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

Notes

Do not boil the wine, as it will evaporate the alcohol and make the tannins bitter. Use whole spices, not ground, to avoid a gritty texture. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute wine with grape juice or apple cider. The wine can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days if strained of fruit and spices.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: German

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 140
Sugar: 10
Carbohydrates: 12

Keywords: mulled wine, Oktoberfest, spiced wine, autumn recipe, fall drink, red wine recipe, holiday drink, cozy autumn