Glühwein
Glühwein is a hot spiced mulled red wine and part of the Christmas market like the gifts under the Christmas tree
Today I am showing you how to make a really good mulled wine yourself
I still remember wandering through the Christmas market in Würzburg, the cobblestone streets glowing under strings of golden lights. The air was crisp, carrying the mingled scents of roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and, most inviting of all, steaming mugs of Glühwein.
Glühwein, or mulled wine, is a popular German beverage, especially during the winter months and at Christmas markets. It’s made by heating red wine and infusing it with various spices and flavors, typically including cinnamon, star anise, cloves, citrus fruits (like orange or lemon slices), and sugar.
The stalls lined the square are each decorated with evergreen branches and ornaments, their vendors ladling out mulled wine into festive mugs. With every sip, warmth spread from my hands to my heart — the deep red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus captured the essence of the season.
Surrounded by laughter and holiday cheer, Glühwein became more than a drink; it was a cherished tradition and a connection to the festive spirit of Germany.
Beyond the recipe, Glühwein embodies the festive spirit of winter. It’s about gathering with friends, strolling through markets, and savoring the warmth of tradition.
Classic Ingredients
The beauty of Glühwein lies in its simplicity. A good bottle of wine is the foundation — I recommend a dry Merlot, which balances fruitiness with depth. From there, spices and citrus transform it into something magical: Mulling spices can also be bought on Amazon (Glühwein Gewürz by Meßmer ). Tea Infusers can be bought here (Loose leaf tea infuser, fine mesh ball)
The preparation involves gently warming the wine without boiling it, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 1 bottle of dry red wine (Merlot, 750 ml)
- 50 ml dark rum (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 cloves
- 1 star anise (optional, for a subtle licorice note)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
Preparation
- Pour the wine into a pot and gently heat — never boil, as this drives off the alcohol and alters the flavor.
- Add cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and star anise.
- Drop in orange slices and let them infuse.
- Optional: stir in dark rum for a richer kick.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes, keeping the temperature low.
Glühwein is often served in festive mugs and can be garnished with a slice of citrus or a cinnamon stick.
🎄 Variations
- Weißer Glühwein: made with white wine, lighter and fruitier.
- Kinderpunsch: a non-alcoholic version using fruit juice, perfect for children and those avoiding alcohol.
- Regional twists: some recipes add cardamom, vanilla, or even a splash of brandy.
Whether enjoyed under the glow of Christmas lights or at home by the fire, it’s a drink that invites celebration and comfort.
Glühwein (hot mulled red Wine)
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of dry red wine (Merlot) (750 ml)
- 50 ml dark Rum (optional)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 sticks of cinnamon
- 3 cloves
- 1 star anis (optional)
- 3 tablespoons of brown sugar (or more to taste)
Instructions
- Heat the red wine in a pot and heat (don’t boil).
- Add the cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and star anise (optional).
- Add orange slices and drop into simmering wine.
- Optional: Add 50ml dark Rum
- Heat everything for about 5 minutes – do not boil!
Notes
Serve in pre-warmed glasses or mugs
