From Austria with love- let’s talk about Glühwein (aka mulled wine)

Winter time! How do I know? It’s not just the Christmas lights everywhere or the fact that every radio station is blasting Mariah Carey on repeat. Nope, it’s also because it’s Glühwein season, the magical time of year when we warm up with cups of that sweet, spiced, slightly boozy goodness.
So, what exactly is Glühwein? Let me break it down: it’s basically wine that’s been cooked with spices. And yes, it comes with alcohol, so not quite the same as sipping tea! One cup warms you up, two cups… well, let’s just say I’ll be tipsy before the Christmas tree lights up.

Since I can’t hang at the Christmas market all night (I mean, I could, but I’d probably regret it), my husband and I decided to make our own mulled wine at home. The best part? Your whole apartment ends up smelling like Christmas! It’s easy to make, and you don’t need anything fancy, just wine, spices, and a pot. That’s it!

Okay, confession time…the first batch I made this year turned out waaaay too sweet. My husband loved it, but I had to add water because I’m not into sipping dessert. Don’t worry, though, I’ve got the recipe nailed down now, and I’m ready to share it.

Step one! pick a decent wine. Don’t go for the cheapest bottle you can find (no, seriously, don’t), but also don’t waste a fancy one. Think middle-of-the-road, something fruity and not too dry. For reds, Merlot or Cabernet are great choices. For whites, try Pinot Blanc or Riesling.

Spice it up!
The magic of mulled wine lies in the spices. The classics? Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Want to get fancy? Throw in some orange peel, ginger, or even a cardamom pod or two. It’s your wine—experiment!

Here’s the trick…do NOT let the wine boil. If you do, the alcohol will escape, and then what’s the point? Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes so the spices can do their thing and your drink stays cozy and aromatic.

My Go-To recipe for Glühwein

Here’s what you need:
1 liter wine (red or white, your call!)
1 liter water
1 orange (sliced)
1 lemon (sliced)
1 tangerine (why not?)
A handful of your favorite spices
Sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste
Optional: A splash of brandy or orange liqueur if you’re feeling fancy.

How to make it:
Mix it up: Pour water into a pot and add sugar, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and sliced orange. You can also grate some orange peel and toss it in for extra flavor.
Infuse the flavours: Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 15 minutes so all those yummy flavors mingle.
Add the wine: Pour in the wine and heat it almost to boiling. Remember, no boiling!
Let it rest: Cover the pot and let the Glühwein sit for another 15 minutes to let the flavors fully develop.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture and serve it hot in your favorite cups. Cheers! ☕

You have so many options when it comes to making Glühwein. Play around with the spices and sweetness until you find your perfect blend. Before you know it, you’ll have your own signature recipe that makes every winter evening special. ☺️

Winter in Austria isn’t complete without the warm, spicy goodness of Glühwein. It’s more than just a drink, it’s a tradition that brings warmth and joy to our chilly days and festive nights. Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace or sharing it with loved ones at a holiday market, Glühwein adds that extra sparkle to the season. So grab a cup, raise a toast, and let’s enjoy the magic of winter together! ☺️

"What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness." - John Steinbeck

With love, @tinabrezpike❤️