As the year comes to an end, and we cuddle up in heavy and cozy blankets, it’s time to enjoy one of the traditional winter sips. Christmas is one of the celebrations that feels like a warm hug, and what better way to celebrate it than with mulled wine! In this blog we’ll be talking about the traditions tied with this drink and also give you an easy-to-make recipe!
Times Of Wine
The making of mulled wine goes back to the Romans, who loved heating wine and then spiking it with different herbs and spices. This brought warmth to the drink which was perfect for the winters. If you want to know the original recipe of mulled wine, you’re going to have to travel to the 5th century. There’s a Roman cookbook that used one part wine and one part honey, heated it and then added spices (bay leaves, dates, saffron, and long pepper).
Of course, over the centuries, this recipe has gone through many variations (it’s a part of evolution, people). One thing that didn’t change was how it’s always been synonymous with parties and festivities. Today, mulled wine is a big part of Christmas celebrations around the world.
Variations Around The World
1. Glögi, Finland
In Finland, the most common way to make Glögi is with blackberry, blueberry, or red grape juice instead of wine. The juice is then spiced with cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom. There’s also a white version made with apple juice or green grapes. You can make this drink with vodka, brandy or rum, but many enjoy this alcohol-free (you probably wouldn’t, so stick with the liquor).
2. Vin Brulé, Italy
Vin Brulé might not be the most popular variation, but you’ll find it in the north region of the country as part of skiing traditions. For this version, red wine is heated with orange slices, sugar, and a number of different spices are added. The recipe keeps changing village to village – it’s hard to keep a track at this point.
3. Ponche Navideño, Mexico
As December starts, there comes a nine day celebration – Las Posadas. It’s about the whole story that led to the birth of Jesus. This tradition was brought in by the Spanish in the 1500s, which has continued till this day. In this recipe, rum’s the spirit of choice. Mix in a variety of spices and fruits – and voila! You’ll have a Ponche Navideño.
Recipe
Now, we’ve already established that there are many variations of mulled wine. You can add different spices and fruits, and make it your own. What makes it perfect for the winters is its rich flavor and warm tone. Today, we’ll tell you the easiest recipe, something you can make at home (for all the lazy couch potatoes, pay attention just this once!).
Just go to the kitchen, take out all the spices and citrus fruits you have, and grab a bottle of red wine. Pretty easy assuming you have all the ingredients in your pantry already.
Okay, let’s make this sip!
Ingredients:
1. 32 oz apple juice
2. 750 ml red wine
3. 2 tbsp of sugar
4. 2 pieces of cinnamon
5. 2 large pieces of orange zest
6. 3 pieces of whole cloves
7. 1 piece star anise
How To Make Mulled Wine
1. In a pot, add apple juice, red wine, cinnamon, orange zest, sugar, and star anise. Stir and keep on low heat.
2. Once the sugar is dissolved and you get the aroma of the spices, turn down the heat.
3. Serve the warm mulled wine in mugs, garnish with orange zests, apple slices and pomegranate seeds.
Okay, now we have the drink. All that’s left is for you to get those Christmas pajamas, and set your movie marathon!
Summing Up
There you go! Easy DIY recipe for you to make your December nights a little warmer. Whether you’re cozying up in your room alone planning to watch the entire ‘Home Alone’ series, or you have a gathering planned, this drink will spice up your holiday. So grab your favorite mug, pour the beverage to the rim, and make it your cuddle buddy. You don’t need a knight to save you, you only need this!
FAQs
1. What is the best wine to make mulled wine?
Merlot, Zinfandel, or Garnacha are the best choice to make mulled wine. Their dark and fruity flavors will complement the spices and fruits you wish to add.
2. Is it okay to reheat mulled wine?
Yes, you can reheat mulled wine as many times, just make sure you don’t overheat it.
3. What is the alcohol content of mulled wine?
The alcohol content of mulled wine is approximately 7 to 14 % ABV.
4. What is the difference between mulled wine and sangria?
Sangria is more focused on the fruity flavors, while mulled wine is more focused on the spices.
5. What can you use instead of apple cider in mulled wine?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can also use apple juice to make mulled wine.
