🇩🇪 Germany · Drinks
Glühwein (German Mulled Wine)
By eatmundo · July 6, 2026
Glühwein is Germany's iconic warm, spiced wine, synonymous with festive Christmas markets and cozy winter evenings. This aromatic beverage combines dry red wine with a harmonious blend of citrus, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, gently sweetened to perfection. It's the ultimate heartwarming drink to ward off the winter chill.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Choose a large, non-reactive saucepan or pot (stainless steel is ideal). Pour in 750ml of dry red wine, such as Dornfelder or Merlot. Avoid using very expensive wine, as the spices will dominate the delicate nuances.
- 2
Wash 1 medium orange thoroughly. Slice it into thick rounds and add them to the saucepan. You can also press some juice directly into the wine for an extra citrus kick.
- 3
Add the whole spices: 2 cinnamon sticks, 8 whole cloves, and 2 star anise pods. These spices will gently infuse the wine with their warm, festive aromas.
- 4
Add 2-4 tablespoons of sugar, adjusting the quantity to your preference. Start with 2 and taste later; you can always add more, but you can't take it out! Stir gently to dissolve the sugar.
- 5
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Slowly bring the Glühwein to a gentle simmer. It is crucial NOT to let it boil, as boiling will cause the alcohol to evaporate and can alter the flavor profile. Look for small bubbles forming around the edges.
- 6
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it steep for at least 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully meld. For a stronger flavor, you can let it steep longer, keeping it warm.
- 7
Taste the Glühwein and adjust the sweetness if desired. Carefully ladle the warm Glühwein into heatproof mugs or glasses, ideally using a fine-mesh strainer to catch the spices if you prefer. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of red wine is best for Glühwein?+
A dry, fruity red wine like a Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), Merlot, or Dornfelder is ideal. Avoid very tannic or oaky wines, as they can become bitter when heated with spices.
How long and at what temperature should I simmer Glühwein?+
Simmer gently for at least 20-30 minutes, keeping the temperature below boiling (ideally 70-80°C or 160-175°F). Boiling can cause the alcohol to evaporate too quickly and affect the flavor.
Should I leave the spices in the Glühwein or remove them after preparation?+
It's best to remove the spices after an hour or two of simmering, or before storing, to prevent the Glühwein from becoming overly bitter. Reusing spices for a new batch is not recommended.
What's a good non-alcoholic substitute for Glühwein?+
For a non-alcoholic version, use red grape juice or cranberry juice as the base. Add the same spices and orange slices, simmering gently to infuse the flavors.
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