Glühwein
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Glühwein
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.6 / 5
Mulled wine, called "Glühwein" in German, is a traditional and tasty Christmas drink in Germany and the perfect treat for cold winter days. You can buy Glühwein at every German Christmas market, but how about making your own spiced wine at home?
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Base ingredient
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Brandy
Calories
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1065 calories
Garnish
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Orange, cinnamon
Alcohol content
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10.89% | 11.4 units *
Details
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Hot
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

Glühwein is a festive melange of warming spices and citrus that beautifully complements the robustness of red wine, creating a delightful hug-in-a-mug for chilly evenings. The addition of brandy not only elevates the alcohol content but also adds a smooth, rich layer that balances the tangy citrus and sweet spices, making for a deeply comforting winter beverage that's both traditional and satisfying.

Method
How to make a Glühwein

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour the red wine into a large pot and begin heating over low heat (don't boil)
Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, sugar, and star anise
Heat thoroughly, then add the oranges slices and the chopped whole lemon
Simmer the mixture about 45 minutes over low heat, again making sure not to boil
Strain into prewarmed glasses or mugs
Garnish with orange slices or a cinnamon stick and serve hot
~ This recipe is very flexible - if you like your mulled wine sweeter, just add more sugar; if you want it stronger, add some brandy or rum. You can also experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, bay leaves or ginger. You can put some kumquats (mini oranges) into the glasses as an optional garnish. ~

Power tips
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Preheat the mugs or glasses by rinsing them with hot water before pouring in the Glühwein. This helps maintain the drink's warmth for a longer period.
For an added layer of spice, include a star anise and a few dashes of allspice in your mulling mixture. These spices can enhance the complexity of the drink.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Occasion suitability icon

What is the best occasion to serve Glühwein?

Glühwein is traditionally served during the winter holidays, especially at Christmas markets in Germany and Austria. It's perfect for any cold-weather gathering or to warm up during the festive season.

Faq icon

Can Glühwein be made in advance?

Yes, Glühwein can be made in advance. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld together. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to avoid boiling and potentially burning off the alcohol.

Faq icon

What kind of red wine is best for Glühwein?

For Glühwein, it's best to use a full-bodied, fruity red wine that's not too sweet nor too dry. Varietals like Merlot, Zinfandel, or a young Cabernet work well, as their flavors complement the spices without being overwhelmed.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of Glühwein?

Yes, there is a non-alcoholic version called 'Kinderpunsch,' which is popular in Germany. It uses similar spices but replaces the wine and brandy with fruit juices, such as apple or grape juice, making it suitable for children and those avoiding alcohol.

Serving suggestions icon

How should Glühwein be served to preserve its flavors?

Glühwein should be served hot but not boiling, as excessive heat can evaporate the alcohol and alter the taste of the spices. An ideal serving temperature is around 70°C (158°F). Use heat-resistant glasses or mugs to prevent cracking.

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