Spiced warm cocktails to the rescue!
This is pure holiday comfort in a cup — a big, warm hug for chilly November and December nights. It warms you right down to your soul and fills the house with cozy, festive aromas like homemade potpourri.
Make a batch and take it in a thermos wherever you go through the holidays — and beyond. When it’s freezing, this is your security blanket: perfect to share while you shop, for pregame gatherings, or to sip by the fire. Designate a sober driver if you’re heading out.
Right now I’m obsessed with mulled wine, especially because you can make it two ways: red or white. I often prefer whites in general, but reds feel warmer and perfect for snowy nights, holiday parties and Thanksgiving. Having both options is ideal — it keeps guests from having to choose a style they don’t enjoy.
The flavor is bright and cozy. Both versions combine wine with apple cider, vanilla, warming spices and fruit. The red version gets a touch of maple syrup, while the white is sweetened with honey and accented with fresh ginger. The differences are subtle but delicious, and both are easy to make ahead or keep warm in a slow cooker.
I love using a cinnamon stick as a stirrer — or, honestly, a straw. Star anise adds a pretty finish, so don’t be intimidated by it. It makes attractive garnishes for Instagram-worthy holiday photos.
This duo pairs nicely with other seasonal cocktails like apple cider sangria or apple margaritas, but serving both mulled red and mulled white wine gives guests variety and a warm, welcoming way to celebrate together.
Mulled Red and White Wine
4 per recipe, easily multiplied
30 mins
Ingredients
Mulled White Wine
- 1 bottle dry white wine (like Chardonnay)
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup whole cranberries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean, split in half
- 1 tablespoon whole cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 small knob of fresh ginger
- Extras for serving: cinnamon sticks, orange wedges, cranberries, star anise
Mulled Red Wine
- 1 bottle semi-dry red wine (like Cabernet)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup whole cranberries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole star anise
- 1 vanilla bean, split in half
- 1 tablespoon whole cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- Extras for serving: cinnamon sticks, orange wedges, cranberries, star anise
Instructions
Mulled White Wine
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. If desired, place cloves and cardamom in a small piece of cheesecloth to make removal easier, or fish them out with a slotted spoon after warming. Cook 10–15 minutes until gently simmering and hot. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice. Serve immediately in glasses garnished with cinnamon sticks and orange slices.
Mulled Red Wine
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. Cook 10–15 minutes until gently simmering and hot. Serve immediately in glasses garnished with cinnamon sticks and orange slices.
Major hearts for you.