Best Mulled Wine Recipe

The majority of my family doesn’t drink at all but after spending a few holidays in Colorado over the past few years, I’ve had a bunch of chances to perfect this delicious mulled wine recipe. I started making it for all of the fall and winter holiday parties with our friends!

I remember my mom making mulled apple cider in a crockpot when I was little and it would fill the whole house with the most delicious smell! So a few years ago when I stumbled upon some mulling spices at the store, I decided to make some for my brother and I to try. I combined my mulled cider roots with some wine and brandy and let me tell you – this stuff is amazing!

I’ve had so many friends that have said that it doesn’t sound good or aren’t big fans of wine and they all ended up agreeing that this is amazing! It’s a hit at every party I’ve ever made it for. If you’re looking for a nonalcoholic version, you can always just leave out the wine and brandy and add more cider – you’ll have a real tasty and simple mulled cider. Or try out our cider tea! But keep scrolling for this recipe or a video with steps on how to put it together!

close up of two glasses of mulled wine with fruit and cinnamon garnish

TIPS FOR MULLED WINE

  • Do not let your mixture boil! Alcohol evaporates at 172°F so make sure to turn the heat all the way down to your lowest setting once you see any bubbles at all.
  • Serve in mugs or heat resistant glasses – these were thick glasses and worked for me but might not be the best option for everyone.
  • Don’t spend too much on the wine – a drier wine will pair well with the sweetness of the cider and brandy but an expensive wine would be wasted with all of the added flavors.
  • You can always use a crockpot on low instead of the stovetop if you prefer.
  • You can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat on the stove on low heat to enjoy for a few days.

Best Mulled Wine Recipe
Total Time
20 mins
 
Course: Drinks
Servings: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 bottle red wine (I usually just use any affordable red blend.)
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 10 whole cloves
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange (sliced)
  • 1/3 cup brandy (I usually use a flavored brandy like peach or red berry)
Instructions
  1. Add wine, cider, spices, and orange slices to a large sauce pan.

  2. Bring to a simmer over medium to low heat.

  3. Strain out oranges and spices.

  4. Add brandy.

  5. Serve immediately.

close up shot of mulled wine with oranges and cinnamon stick
two glasses of mulled wine with garnishes and ingredients surrounding

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