Traditional German Mulled Wine Recipe (Glühwein) (30 Mins) (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take to heat Glühwein? ›

Simmer. Cook the mulled wine on medium-high heat until it just barely reaches a simmer. (Avoid letting it bubble — you don't want to boil off the alcohol.) Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the wine simmer for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours.

Mulled wine is hot spiced wine. Gluhwein is a German term for exactly the same. However, they might not necessarily taste the same way because there are so many different recipes, spice mixes and wines to choose from.

The word “Glühwein” roughly translates to “glow wine.” A traditional Glühwein typically includes a variety of spices such as cinnamon, clove, and star anise. This German mulled wine also features citrus, vanilla, and sugar. It is most often made with red wine, although you can use white wine if you prefer.

Different versions of mulled wine in different countries

In Scandinavian countries this drink is known as gløgg and it often includes aquavit, cardamom (if you use the black kind it gives a lovely smoky taste) and dried fruit. The German version is glühwein (or 'glowing' wine) and that includes schnapps.

Let the wine slowly warm up to 70°C (160F) do not pass 80°C (175F) (keep a close eye on that). When you reach 70°C (160F) let the flavors mix up for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving.

In short, yes, some of the alcohol burns off when boiling mulled wine, but you should only be gently bringing up to the boil and simmering for around 15-30 minutes which isn't enough time to completely remove all alcohol traces.

This mulled wine recipe is for the German Glühwein, which literally translates to glow-wine, because of how you feel after you've been drinking tiny mugs outside in December.

Zinfandels, Merlots, Syrah/Shiraz, or Garnache tend to work best. Avoid red wines high in tannins or have an oaky flavor, and avoid light reds. Sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon, which tends to have a full-bodied, fruity flavor, can work in a pinch, as can Malbec, which tends to have a bold, spicy flavor.

The wine is thoroughly warmed with cloves, cinnamon, star anise and sugar. It is possible to add a slice of lemon or orange. Mulled wine has about 7.5% alcohol.

While it's a nice drink to imbibe on its own, it's always more fun to think of pairings. Truthfully, mulled wine pairs well with everything from roast beef or sausage to cheese platters. Miller loves to take comforting, classic meat and potato dishes and throw in Filipino twists.

Does alcohol burn off in Glühwein? ›

All ingredients are combined and heated to approximately 150-160 degrees. Be careful not to over heat or boil the mixture. Since alcohol evaporates at 172 degrees which is much lower than water you would be left with a non-alcoholic version of mulled wine and that defeats the purpose.

Make All of It Ahead of Time

Just follow the directions for your favorite recipe and let the wine simmer with spices until it's deeply infused. Then let the mulled wine cool at room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the fridge — it will keep well there for up to three days.

The taste of glögg decreases with age, but if it has passed it's best before date but you find that it still taste up to standard, then, by all means, enjoy! The product keeps well if stored unopened in a dark and cool place that maintains an even temperature.

Mulled wine, also known as spiced wine, is an alcoholic drink usually made with red wine, along with various mulling spices and sometimes raisins, served hot or warm. It is a traditional drink during winter, especially around Christmas.

Mulled wine still has a high alcohol and sugar content, so you should be aware of how much you're consuming. 'People often think that because it's been heated it's less alcoholic, but only a small amount actually evaporates,' explains Dr Lee.

After creating your delicious concoction, warm the mixture slowly over low heat. Be sure not to bring your pot to a boil, as that will boil away all the alcohol.

Saucepan on low. The pre-bottled stuff tastes better if you toss some orange slices in there. I meant to buy a cheap bottle of red wine today to make Gluhwein. I've also done it for a few hours in a crock pot on high, that way it stays warm for refills/larger groups of people.

Cold mulled wine may be strained and chilled, then reheated very gently in a microwave. Much better is to strain it and either freeze it to add to your next batch, or to set it into one large or many small jellies that will brighten up ice creams and are good topped with clotted cream.