This is winter in its most generous form. Deep red wine gently warmed with Krampus, citrus, and spice, filling the room with that unmistakable something’s-on-the-stove feeling. It’s the kind of drink meant for slow evenings, cold hands wrapped around a mug, and conversations that stretch long past the first pour. Comforting, aromatic, and just a little bit dangerous.
Mulled wine is the smell of the holidays: red wine warmed slowly with orange, cloves and cinnamon. This batch recipe adds Krampus Herbal Liqueur and a splash of brandy and serves six.
Make it on the stove and keep it warm for a party.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
- 4 oz Krampus Herbal Liqueur
- 4 oz orange juice
- 2 oz brandy
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4–6 whole cloves
- 2–3 cinnamon sticks
Directions
- Add everything to a pot or slow cooker.
- Heat gently over low heat for about 20 minutes, until steaming. Don’t let it boil.
- Ladle into mugs and serve warm, with an orange slice in each.
Glass: Mugs · Garnish: Orange slice
Tip
Choose a fruity, inexpensive red like Merlot, Garnacha or Zinfandel. Save the oaky, tannic bottles for dinner; they turn bitter when heated.
Variations
For a party, keep it in a slow cooker on the warm setting and let guests ladle their own. For a brighter version, add a couple of star anise and a strip of lemon peel while it warms.
A Brief History of Mulled Wine
The Romans heated and spiced their wine, and the habit spread across Europe with them. By the Middle Ages, spiced wine was a winter staple and a way to stretch wine that was starting to turn.
Today it goes by many names: Glühwein at German and Austrian Christmas markets, glögg in Scandinavia and vin chaud in France.
Why Make It With Krampus
Most mulled wine recipes need plenty of sugar or honey to balance the wine and spices. Krampus Herbal Liqueur brings raw honey along with roasted hazelnut and warming spice, so it sweetens and deepens the wine in one step. It also comes from the same Alpine Christmas-market tradition as Glühwein, which makes it a natural fit.
FAQ
What is the best wine for mulled wine?
A fruity, inexpensive dry red, such as Merlot, Garnacha or Zinfandel. Avoid heavily oaked or tannic wines.
How do I keep mulled wine from losing its alcohol?
Never let it boil. Keep it just below a simmer, or hold it on the warm setting of a slow cooker.