Mulled Wine Recipe - Latah Creek

As the crisp autumn air gives way to the chill of winter, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cup of mulled wine. Rich, spiced, and aromatic, mulled wine is a seasonal favorite that brings warmth and festive cheer to any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering by the fire or relaxing after a long day, this comforting drink is perfect for the cooler months. Here at Latah Creek Winery, we believe that the best mulled wine starts with a quality red wine—and our red wine selection offers the perfect foundation for this beloved holiday treat!

In this post, we’ll guide you through crafting a delicious, easy-to-make mulled wine using red wine. We’ll also share tips for enhancing the flavors and ideas for pairing it with seasonal foods to make your gatherings even more special. Let’s dive in and learn how to create the perfect mulled wine!

When making mulled wine, the quality of the base wine is key. While you don’t need to use an expensive bottle, choosing a red wine that you’d enjoy on its own is crucial. At Latah Creek, we produce a range of reds that work beautifully for mulling due to their rich flavors and balance of acidity and fruit.

For this recipe, we recommend using one of the following reds:

Merlot – Known for its smooth texture and ripe berry flavors, Merlot makes an excellent base for mulled wine, providing warmth and a soft, velvety mouthfeel.
Cabernet Sauvignon – With its bold structure and hints of dark fruit and spice, Cabernet Sauvignon will bring depth and complexity to your mulled wine.
Red Blend – A Red Blend offers a harmonious balance of flavors, combining the best qualities of multiple varietals for a rich, flavorful mulled wine experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a batch of festive mulled wine, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients in addition to your bottle of red wine. This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, perfect for a small gathering.

Ingredients:

1 bottle (750 ml) of Red Wine
1/4 cup brandy (optional for extra warmth)
1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
1 orange (sliced, with peel on)
1 apple (sliced)
4-6 whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
2-3 star anise
1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
2-3 cardamom pods (optional)
1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional for garnish)
Fresh cranberries (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing and slicing the orange and apple into rounds. Keep the peel on for the orange, as it adds a nice citrus flavor to the wine.
Measure out your spices: cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and cardamom pods if you’re using them.

Step 2: Warm the Wine

Pour the entire bottle of wine into a large saucepan or slow cooker.
Set the heat to low or medium-low. The key is to slowly warm the wine without boiling it, as boiling will burn off the alcohol and alter the flavor.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Once the wine begins to warm, add the sliced orange, apple, and your chosen spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, and cardamom).
Stir in the honey or sugar and let it dissolve into the wine. If you want a little extra kick, add the brandy at this stage.
Continue to heat the wine gently for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the spices and fruit to infuse their flavors into the liquid.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

After 20 minutes, taste your mulled wine and adjust as needed. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more honey or sugar. For a stronger spice flavor, you can add another cinnamon stick or extra cloves. The longer the wine simmers, the more intense the flavors will become, so feel free to let it sit a little longer if you want a bolder taste.

Step 5: Serve

Once the wine is warmed through and fragrant with spices, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the mulled wine into heatproof mugs or glasses, making sure to include a slice of orange or apple for garnish.
If you like, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few cranberries to each glass for a festive touch.

Pro Tip: If you're hosting a party, keep the mulled wine in a slow cooker on the "warm" setting so your guests can help themselves throughout the evening without it getting cold.

Pairing Suggestions

Mulled wine is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary foods can take your experience to the next level. Here are a few seasonal pairing ideas that will enhance the warm, spiced flavors of the wine:

Cheese Board: Soft cheeses like brie or camembert pair beautifully with mulled wine, as do sharp varieties like aged cheddar. Add some dried fruits and nuts to your board for a well-rounded spread.
Spiced Nuts: Cinnamon-spiced almonds or pecans echo the warm spices of the wine and provide a satisfying crunch.
Desserts: Mulled wine pairs wonderfully with holiday desserts such as gingerbread, spiced cookies, or apple pie.
Savory Pastries: Mini meat pies or puff pastries filled with mushrooms, cheese, or savory meats are a great accompaniment for mulled wine.

There’s something truly magical about a warm cup of mulled wine on a chilly winter’s evening. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a quiet night by the fireplace, or looking for a way to elevate your seasonal drinks, this mulled wine recipe using Latah Creek red wine is a surefire hit. The combination of our smooth, flavorful reds with classic winter spices creates a drink that’s both comforting and festive.

We encourage you to experiment with the recipe to make it your own—whether that means adjusting the sweetness, adding your favorite spices, or trying different Latah Creek wines. And don’t forget to pair it with some seasonal bites for a truly memorable experience.

From everyone at Latah Creek Winery, we wish you a warm and wonderful holiday season. Cheers to creating cozy moments with great wine!

Cheers,

Natalie