What kind of alcohol is mulled wine (Glühwein)? - Warm wine that is essential for Christmas and winter

Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a warm beverage made by heating red wine with sugar and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, orange, and lemon.

Recently, mulled wine made with white wine as a base has also become increasingly popular.

It is enjoyed as a winter tradition in European countries such as Germany and Austria, and is commonly served at Christmas markets and Christmas parties.

The Culture of Mulled Wine

The history of mulled wine dates back to the 2nd century BC during Roman times. Back then, it was called “Conditum Paradoxum” and was made by adding honey and spices to wine before heating. This culture spread throughout Europe with the Roman military campaigns, and in Germany, the oldest record is a mulled wine tankard dating back to around 1420.

In medieval Europe, spiced wine was believed to have medicinal properties and became widely popular.

Mulled wine not only warms the body on cold winter nights, but the aroma of spices and herbs also stimulates the appetite. Because it enhances the enjoyment of food, it is often consumed as an aperitif in Europe.

During the Christmas season, there is also a culture of celebrating Christmas by drinking mulled wine while enjoying conversation with family and friends, surrounded by the warm glow of Christmas trees and candles.

Characteristics of Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is characterized by its sweet and spicy flavor. The acidity and sweetness of red wine harmonize perfectly with the aroma of spices, making it an ideal drink for cold winters.

The alcohol content of mulled wine is generally around 10% since it is based on red wine. However, commercially available mulled wines may have lower alcohol content, and non-alcoholic versions are also available.

Types of Mulled Wine

There are many variations of mulled wine. At German Christmas markets, you can enjoy many types beyond the classic red wine-based version.

• White Mulled Wine (Weißer Glühwein) - A refreshing taste made with white wine as a base
• Blueberry Mulled Wine (Heidelbeerglühwein) - A fruity cup with added blueberry flavor
• Mulled Wine with a Shot (Glühwein mit Schuss) - Increases the alcohol content by adding a shot of rum
• Feuerzangenbowle - A special drink made by setting fire to rum-soaked sugar cubes and letting them drip into the wine
• Kinderpunsch - A non-alcoholic version for children made with spiced syrup and grape juice

Ingredients of Mulled Wine

The basic ingredients of mulled wine are as follows:

• Red wine
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Nutmeg
• Orange
• Lemon

In addition to these, you can add various spices and herbs such as ginger, anise, vanilla, cardamom, star anise, and cocoa to create your own original mulled wine.

How to Make Mulled Wine

Mulled wine can be easily made at home.

Ingredients (serves 2)

• Red wine: 500ml
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon stick: 1
• Cloves: 5
• Nutmeg: 1/2 piece
• Orange slice: 1
• Lemon slice: 1

Instructions

1. Add red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to a pot and heat over low heat.
2. Simmer for about 5 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.
3. Add orange and lemon slices and simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour into cups and serve.

Tips for Making Mulled Wine

• Do not let the wine boil. Boiling causes the alcohol to evaporate and the flavor to become concentrated.
• Using whole spices rather than powdered ones results in better aroma and texture.
• Using a red wine that is less tannic and sweeter produces a more delicious result.

Variations

Try the following variations to enjoy your mulled wine even more:

• Add spices such as ginger or anise to enhance the flavor.
• Add chocolate or cocoa to increase sweetness and richness.
• Add brandy or rum to increase the alcohol content.
• Add whipped cream or fresh cream to enjoy it like a dessert.

Mulled wine is a recommended drink for staying warm during cold winters. Try various arrangements to find your own favorite mulled wine.