
Glühwein — German Mulled Wine Recipe
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Warm, spiced red wine with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange — the essential Christmas market drink.
About This Recipe
"Glühwein — German Mulled Wine" is a Drinks & Extras recipe that brings dry red wine, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise and orange, sliced together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle dry red wine
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 1 orange, sliced
- 0.25 cup sugar
Instructions
- 1
Combine all ingredients in a pot. Heat gently — do NOT boil (that burns off the alcohol).
- 2
Simmer very gently for 20 minutes to let the spices infuse.
- 3
Strain and serve in heat-proof mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Dry red wine is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Glühwein — German Mulled Wine" is a versatile Drinks & Extras dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Glühwein — German Mulled Wine stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Glühwein — German Mulled Wine?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 25 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Glühwein — German Mulled Wine?
Store leftover Glühwein — German Mulled Wine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Glühwein — German Mulled Wine ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Glühwein — German Mulled Wine in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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