The Ultimate Glühwein Recipe

In the winter months, there’s nothing more indulgent and delectable than a glass of perfectly made glühwein to warm your soul.

Glühwein, otherwise known as mulled wine, is red wine mixed with various mulled spices which is served hot.

The drink originated in the medieval times in England, where it is still traditionally enjoyed at Christmas time, but has since made its way to various European countries where it has evolved into the common form of what it is now.

The name ‘Glühwein’ originates from German, literally translating to ‘glow-wine’ because of the warmth it provides. Traditional glühwein is usually made with red wine (such as a merlot or shiraz) as a base, which is then heated and spiced with cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks, oranges and sugar.
Not only is this drink a great way to warm up during the colder months, it is also a very flavourful drink that is sure to please the palate.

We have scoured several recipes and found the ultimate glühwein recipe that is not only exceptionally tasty, but super simple to make. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 bottle (750ml) of red wine
½ cup of water
2 oranges
10 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon star anise
½ cup of sugar

Method:

Start by combining the wine and water in a large pot. Turn on the heat and let simmer for at least 5 minutes. Once the wine comes to a gentle boil, add the whole cloves, star anise and the cinnamon stick.

Allow to gently simmer for another 5 minutes.

Once the spices have integrated into the wine, add the juice of the oranges and mix well.

Pro tip: You can add the whole oranges (after you have squeezed the juice into the wine mixture) for extra, orangey flavour. Alternatively you can add one cup of orange juice in the mixture.

Once the oranges have been mixed with the wine and spices, add the sugar and stir well. If the mixture is a bit too tart, add two more teaspoons of sugar.

Glühwein is best served piping hot!