Mulled wine originated in the 2nd century as a way to keep the Romans warm during cold winters. As the Roman empire spread across Europe, so did the popularity of mulled wine. Europeans would mix their wine with spices to promote health and avoid sickness and add herbs and flowers to make unpalatable wine taste better. Nowadays, the beverage is often associated with the holidays and is enjoyed across the world under a variety of names, including Glühwein in Germany and Glögg in Sweden. 

Here’s our take on mulled wine:

• One bottle red wine
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise
• 8 cloves
• 1/4 c. brown sugar
• 3 strips orange zest
• 3 strips lemon zest
• Optional: 1/2 tsp. grated nutmeg
• Optional: 1/2 tsp. fresh or powdered ginger
• Optional: 1/4 c. brandy

In a saucepan, bring all ingredients to a low simmer for at least 15 minutes (be sure not to boil or the alcohol will evaporate). Pour into mugs and enjoy!

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