Making German mulled wine, known in Germany as Glühwein, is a warm and fragrant way to bring a classic holiday tradition into your home. This hot spiced wine is simple to prepare, mostly hands-off, and ideal for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire.
This cozy beverage combines red wine with citrus and warming spices, producing an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen and warms you from the inside out.
About This Recipe
Glühwein is a beloved winter beverage in Germany and across many European Christmas markets. This mulled wine is traditionally made by gently heating red wine with spices such as cinnamon, star anise and cloves, along with citrus to brighten the flavor.
At outdoor markets during December, vendors serve Glühwein in small mugs to help visitors warm up while shopping and enjoying the festive atmosphere. If you make it at home, a small mug is also ideal so the drink stays warm while you enjoy it.
The combination of citrus and warming spices gives Glühwein its characteristic sweet-spicy aroma and depth of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with simple cookies or pastries and makes a welcoming addition to any winter celebration.
FAQ
What is Glühwein mit Schuss?
“Mit Schuss” means adding an extra shot of liquor to the mulled wine, usually a spirit such as rum, brandy or schnapps. At home you can choose to make your Glühwein with or without that extra kick.
Can I use orange or lemon zest instead of slices?
Yes. Slices look attractive and release juice into the wine, but large strips of zest work well too. Remove the zest before serving.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Yes. A popular alcohol-free alternative is Kinderpunsch, a warm spiced punch made from fruit juices and the same traditional spices used in Glühwein.
Do the spices need to be whole?
Whole spices such as cinnamon sticks, whole cloves and star anise are preferred because they infuse more cleanly and are easier to remove than powdered spices.
Will the alcohol burn off if I heat the wine?
If you keep the wine at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling, most of the alcohol will remain. Boiling can drive off alcohol and alter the flavor.
What wine is best? A good everyday red from the grocery store works well—varieties like Pinot Noir, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon create a balanced Glühwein. There’s no need to use an expensive bottle; choose one you enjoy drinking on its own. Vegan wines are also fine to use.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
- 2–3 cinnamon sticks
- 15 whole cloves
- 5 whole star anise
- 4–6 teaspoons sugar (white or brown), to taste
- Vanilla sugar or a vanilla bean pod (optional)
Measurements are flexible—this is a forgiving recipe. Adjust spices and sweetness to suit your taste.
Kitchen tools:
- Medium saucepan or slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle and small sieve for serving
- Small mugs for serving
Recipe Variations, Notes & Tips
- Timing: For best flavor, simmer gently for 1–2 hours so the spices infuse fully. If you’re short on time, 15–20 minutes will still produce a tasty drink.
- Sugar: Sweeten to taste with white or brown sugar, or a sugar substitute that dissolves well in warm liquids.
- Spices: Use whole spices for a cleaner taste. Optional additions include cardamom pods or a split vanilla bean.
- Serving: Serve in small mugs garnished with an orange slice or a cinnamon stick. Smaller servings help keep the drink warm while it’s being enjoyed.
- Slow cooker method: You can prepare Glühwein in a slow cooker on low heat for several hours for a hands-off option.
How to Make German Mulled Wine (Traditional Glühwein)
1. Slice the orange and lemon (if using).
2. Pour the wine into a saucepan and add the sugar, stirring until it dissolves.
3. Add the orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise. If using vanilla, add it now. Warm the mixture over low to medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Keep the heat low and do not let it boil. Simmer gently for 1–2 hours to develop deep flavor.
4. When ready to serve, strain the Glühwein through a small sieve to remove the spices and citrus. Ladle into small mugs and garnish as desired.
Recipe Summary
Yield: 4–6 portions. Prep Time: 5 minutes. Cook Time: 1–2 hours (gentle simmer). Total time varies depending on infusion length.
More Warm Drink Ideas
- Homemade egg nog latte
- Classic egg nog from scratch
- Warm non-alcoholic winter punches
- London Fog (Earl Grey latte)
- Fresh mint hot tea
- Hot lemon, ginger and mint tea
Enjoy this traditional German mulled wine as part of your holiday traditions or whenever you want a warming, spiced drink. Adjust the spices, sweetness, and simmer time to match your taste, and serve in small mugs to savor every steaming sip.