The perfect cold-weather cocktail is Mulled Wine in the crockpot. The warm spiced wine is sure to be a delicious addition to your holiday menu or party.
Did you know? A beloved holiday custom that dates back to the 2nd century Roman era is mulled wine. Spices were added to promote health, and wine was warmed to combat the bitter European winters. In order to mask the taste of the cheap wine, which was much more prevalent than good wine, sweeteners were added. Mulled wine is basically red wine that has been simmered with a variety of spices, such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, to give it a delicious, spiced flavor.
Mulled Wine is known as svaák in Prague. Glögg, a wine made with blanched almonds, raisins, cardamom, and typically more sugar, can be found in Nordic countries. Mulled wine is made with a shot of rum or amaretto and is referred to as Gluhwein, or "glow wine," in Germany. Depending on where you are in the world, you will find different names for this drink, including vino caliente, vin brulé, bisschopswijn, vin chaud, candola, and vinho quente or so many other names.
What is the best type of wine to use? Look for a dry red wine and no need to break the bank. The best options are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, or Pinot Noir.
Give it a try and let us know your favorite in the comments!
Try some of our other favorite drinks, such as Crock Pot Hot Chocolate, Alcoholic Hot Chocolate in the Slow Cooker, Dirty Roy Rogers, or a Dirty Shirley.
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Ingredients for Mulled Wine in a Slow Cooker
- bottle of red wine
- apple cider
- Triple Sec or Brandy
- orange, sliced
- whole allspice berries
- cinnamon sticks
- star anise
- sweetener (honey, sugar or maple syrup)
FAQs
Mulled wine is a warm, spiced wine beverage traditionally enjoyed during the colder months, especially around the holiday season. It is made by heating red wine with various spices and fruits, which infuse the wine with rich, aromatic flavors. The result is a comforting and fragrant drink that is perfect for gatherings and festive occasions.
Yes, you can make Mulled White Wine using similar ingredients and the same method. White wine tends to be lighter and fruitier, so you may want to adjust the spices and sweeteners accordingly.
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of Mulled Wine by substituting the wine with grape juice or apple cider. Follow the same recipe, omitting the alcohol, and adjust the sweeteners and spices to taste.
Use a dry or semi-dry red wine that you enjoy drinking. Affordable options like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Zinfandel work well. Avoid overly expensive or delicate wines, as the spices will mask subtle flavors.
Top Tips
- It's best to serve mulled wine warm, not boiling. The sugars will begin to caramelize and the mixture will begin to burn if you allow it to boil. Always simmer; never boil.
- If you heat it for too long or at a high temperature, the alcohol will ultimately evaporate and your wine will start to taste too spicy or syrupy.
- Brandy is a traditional option to add, although wonderful substitutes include tawny port and Cointreau (or similar orange liqueur).
How to make Mulled Wine in the Crockpot
- In a slow cooker, add wine, apple cider and sliced orange. Place spices into a cheesecloth or directly to the pot. Cook on low for 1 hour.
- Remove spices and set slow cooker to warm. Stir in sweetener (honey, sugar or maple syrup) and Triple Sec or Brandy.
- Serve warm and with your favorite garnishes. Enjoy and drink responsibly!
Crockpot Mulled Wine Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (750 ml) bottle of red wine
- 2 cups apple cider
- ¼ cup Triple Sec or Brandy
- 1 orange, sliced
- 6 whole allspice berries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 2-4 tablespoon sweetener (honey, sugar or maple syrup)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, add wine, apple cider and sliced orange. Place spices into a cheesecloth or directly to the pot. Cook on low for 1 hour.
- Remove spices and set slow cooker to warm. Stir in sweetener (honey, sugar or maple syrup) and Triple Sec or Brandy.
- Serve warm and with your favorite garnishes. Enjoy and drink responsibly!
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