A Cozy Winter Classic: Mulled Wine
- wyaward
- Dec 18, 2025
- 2 min read
Mulled wine is one of our favorite winter traditions — a fragrant blend of red wine, citrus, and warming spices that feels like comfort in a mug. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for festive gatherings, fireside sipping, or slow winter nights at home.
This recipe leans into classic flavors with just the right balance of spice and sweetness, letting the wine shine while the aromatics do their magic. We recommend using a medium-bodied red like our 2023 Merlot, which brings enough structure to hold up to the spices without overpowering them.
Whether you’re hosting friends, winding down after a chilly day, or looking for a new seasonal staple, this mulled wine is one you’ll come back to all winter long.
Ingredients
1 bottle red wine — we recommend our 2023 Merlot
1 orange, sliced (you can remove the rind to prevent the wine from getting too bitter)
2 cinnamon sticks
6 whole cloves
3 star anise
¼ teaspoon allspice
¼ cup brown sugar
½ cup apple cider
1 slice fresh ginger (optional)
2–4 cardamom pods (optional)
Splash of brandy (optional, but encouraged)
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
Warm gently until fragrant — do not allow to boil, as this can cook off the alcohol and dull the flavors.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse fully.
Ladle into heatproof mugs and garnish with an orange slice and cinnamon stick.
Make It Your Own
One of the best things about mulled wine is how forgiving it is. Prefer it a little sweeter? Add a touch more brown sugar or apple cider. Love bold spice? Let it simmer a few extra minutes or add more cardamom. Hosting a crowd? Keep it warm on low heat and let guests help themselves.
Serve alongside cozy bites, a crackling fire, or good company — and you’ve got an instant winter moment worth lingering over.
Cheers to staying warm 🍷
