Gently heat the wine at a simmer to infuse the mulling flavors into the beverage. About ¼ cup of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar add rich warming flavor, although granulated sugar works just fine. Last but not least, a touch of sweetness balances out any bitter notes in the warmed wine, making each glass a bit more irresistible. Some mulled wine recipes add dried fruit such as raisins, apples, or cranberries. Alternatively, float slices of the citrus in the mulled wine. Remove slices of zest from an orange, lemon, or any seasonal citrus and add it into the mix. Whichever route you take, ensure the spices remain packaged together in some way so that you can easily remove them from the drink when the flavor is right.Ĭitrus lends mild acidity and another seasonal flavor note. Alternatively, you can buy mulling spice bags. Gather the spices in a piece of cheesecloth and tie with a string. Place them in a freezer bag and break them up using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Start with whole spices: star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, peppercorns, or cardamom. While mulling spices are the key ingredients, go easy on them-they are quite potent and the flavor develops as the warm wine concoction sits. Swedish mulled wines, known as Glögg, opt for clear spirits like vodka or aquavit. While it's not required, adding a small amount of higher proof alcohol to the wine is a great way to amp up the flavor and warming quality of this comforting drink.
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While red wine is traditional for mulled wine, white is also an option-our recipe for Mulled White Wine is not to be missed. If you're not sure if a bottle might be suitable, look for descriptors like these: dark red fruit, vanilla, caramel, peppercorn, tobacco or cinnamon. Look for wines such as malbec, cabernet sauvignon, zweigelt, or grenache.
#SPICED WINE HOMEBREW FULL#
Start by choosing a full bodied red wine that stands up to the spices and fruitiness of this warming cocktail. As it simmers, the flavor in the wine change so it's really not worth using expensive bottles instead, pick ones with flavor characteristics that complement this spiced drink. In fact, this recipe actually tastes best with mid-range bottles. This is not the time to bring out the finest bottle of wine you can find.
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Related: Which Red Wines Are Best for Cooking? Select the Wine
#SPICED WINE HOMEBREW HOW TO#
Here, we outline how to make mulled wine. It feels sophisticated but is actually quite easy to prepare. This is the beverage that you want to have brewing on the stovetop when guests arrive or to enjoy for a relaxing evening in. Its aroma will fill the house with festive spirit while the flavor and warmth gets you inside and out. Making this favorite warming drink at home is as simple as simmering a few ingredients on the stovetop. Now that the weather is turning chilly, it's time to get cozy with homemade Mulled Wine.