Getting cozy with mulled wine

The temps are starting to drop here in the foothills, on their way to downright chilly. I think most would agree that a crisp, refreshing, chilled white wine just isn’t what we’re looking for on a cold winter’s day. Those big, bold red wines are more suitable for this time of year. So, that got us thinking about fall and winter beverages, which got us thinking about an old favorite – mulled wine! The depth of spice and dark fruit in our old vine zinfandel makes it a

Can’t you just see this cozy scene - you’re relaxing by the fire, wrapped in a blanket, binge-watching your favorite Netflix show, and you want something to warm you up. Enter Mulled Wine. It is not just for Dickens’ lovers anymore! Mulled Wine is essentially warmed, spiced wine, often revved up with some type of spirits, brandy or rum.

 Mulled wine originated in the 2nd century and was created by the Romans who would heat wine to defend their bodies against the cold winter. It is known by many different names; in Norway and Sweden it is called glögg and in Germany and Belgium it is called glühwein. Perhaps you have even seen it at Ikea?? Towards to the end of the 1800’s, it became popular all over Europe as a holiday beverage to enjoy with family and friends.

Enter modern day, having a holiday party? Get out your Crock Pot, Instant Pot, or boiling pot on the stove and load them up with the necessary spices and wine. See our recipe below, or on our recipe page, for ingredients and amounts. It can be ready in as little at 15 minutes but is better if left to barely simmer for more time. The longer it does, the better the integration of the spices into the wine. Plus, it will fill your home with a festive aroma that will welcome your guests as soon as they walk in the door.

MULLED WINE RECIPE

Ingredients

One bottle Late Harvest Zinfandel

One orange, sliced in rounds

8 whole cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

2 star anise pods

2 whole cardamom pods

2 tablespoons honey

¼ cup brandy (optional)

Dehydrated orange slices

Preparation

Combine all ingredients in a small pot, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot.
Heat to just below a simmer for at least 15 minutes and up to 3 hours, to develop flavors.
Strain mulled wine, reserving orange slices for garnish if desired. Ladle into cups, and garnish with dehydrated orange slices.

Serves five people.