Glühwein, also known as mulled wine, is a traditional holiday beverage that originated in Europe, specifically in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It is made by heating red wine with a mixture of spices and sweeteners, such as cinnamon, cloves, and sugar or honey. Some variations also include other ingredients, such as brandy or rum.
The origins of glühwein can be traced back to the ancient Romans, who would heat wine with spices and serve it as a warm beverage. In medieval times, glühwein became a popular drink throughout Europe, and it is still enjoyed today as a warm and comforting beverage during the colder months of the year. In addition to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, glühwein is also popular in other European countries, such as Sweden, Denmark, and the Czech Republic, as well as in the United States and other parts of the world.
To make glühwein , you will need:
1 bottle of red wine
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
1 cinnamon stick
4 cloves
2 star anise
1/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
- In a large pot, combine the red wine, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
- Add the sugar and stir until it is fully dissolved.
Reduce the heat to low and let the glühwein simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you prefer a stronger flavor. - Strain the glühwein through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids
- Serve the glühwein hot in mugs or heat-resistant glasses. You can garnish each serving with a slice of orange or lemon, if desired.
Note: If you prefer a sweeter glühwein , you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. You can also add other spices to the mixture, such as cardamom or allspice, or omit any spices that aren’t your favorites.
Chiara Pinot Noir from Germany would be my top choice for making glühwein. Its soft lifted fruit would be a perfect match for the spices