One drink can warm your body and soul—mulled wine as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop. Imagine a chilly evening spent indoors with the scent of spices, citrus, and rich red wine filling the air. At Angry Otter Liquor, we believe every season has its signature drink, and for winter, mulled wine is one of our favourites.

Whether hosting a holiday gathering or winding down by the fire, we're here to help you perfect this cozy classic.

Sipping History

Mulled wine has existed for centuries, evolving from a humble necessity to a cherished winter tradition. Its journey began with the Romans, who were nothing if not resourceful when battling the cold. They believed that heating their wine and adding spices kept them warm and made the wine last longer, which was a win-win for travellers and soldiers. They would mix their wine with local spices and herbs, creating the earliest version of what we now know as mulled wine.

As the Romans expanded their empire, they brought spiced wine. The idea of warming up with a flavorful drink resonated, and soon, mulled wine became a staple during harsh winters across many countries. When the Middle Ages rolled around, mulled wine had gained new meaning. It wasn't just a practical way to stay warm—it was also thought to have health benefits, with people believing that the added spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise could ward off illness. As clean drinking water wasn't always available, spiced wine was a flavorful and safer alternative.

It slowly became intertwined with European holiday traditions, especially in Germany and the United Kingdom. In Germany, "Glühwein" became a staple at Christmas markets. Picture this: the crisp air, twinkling lights, and the comforting aroma of spices floating through the market as people clutch steaming mugs of mulled wine. Meanwhile, in England, mulled wine took on a life of its own during the Victorian era. Charles Dickens even gave it a nod in A Christmas Carol, further cementing its association with the holidays. Many Victorian households had their own recipes, passed down through generations as a centrepiece of holiday traditions.

Today, mulled wine continues to be a beloved part of winter celebrations around the world, with each region adding its own twist. In Sweden, they have "Glogg," often served with almonds and raisins. You'll find it ladled from large pots at Christmas fairs in the United Kingdom. And here in North America, it's becoming a cozy favourite for holiday gatherings and quiet winter evenings alike.

So, why has mulled wine endured through the centuries? Perhaps it's because it's more than just a drink—it symbolizes warmth and shared moments. With each sip, you're not just tasting wine and spices—you're experiencing a tradition that has warmed hearts for years.

The Perfect Mulled Wine Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 Bottle of Red Wine
• 1 Orange
• 6 Whole Cloves
• 3 Cinnamon Sticks
• 3 Star Anise
• ¼ cup Honey
• ½ cup Brandy

Directions

Add ingredients to a saucepan, stirring to combine. Cook on medium high until it reaches a soft simmer, avoiding boiling off the alcohol. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for at least 15 minutes. Strain and serve warm with your preferred garnishes.

Angry Otter Tips

The beauty of mulled wine lies in its simplicity—yet, like all great things, the magic is in the details. With just a few key ingredients, you can transform a bottle of wine into a cozy winter indulgence that fills your home with warmth and rich, inviting aromas. Let’s break down the essentials, so you can create the perfect blend every time.

• Wine: The foundation of your mulled wine is, of course, the wine itself. For a classic version, you’ll want to stick with a bold red wine with plenty of body and flavour to stand up to the spices. Think Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel—wines with dark fruit notes and a bit of structure. Don’t worry about splurging on a fancy bottle; mid-range wines work just as well, as the spices and citrus will enhance the flavours. White mulled wine is another option worth exploring for those looking to mix it up. Chardonnay or Riesling can provide a lighter, more citrus-forward version that’s just as delightful. The key is choosing a wine you enjoy drinking independently, as its natural flavours will still shine through.
• Spices and Aromatics: Although cloves, cinnamon, and star anise are the classic combination that makes this drink so warming, feel free to mix it up and get creative! Our favourite is simmering the wine with chai tea bags for an added flavour, but you can also add ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a more exotic flavour. The key is to adjust the amounts of each to suit your taste.
• Sweeteners: Adding a bit of sweetness is critical to balancing the spice and acidity. While honey is a classic choice, maple syrup can also add a depth of flavour that compliments the spice.
  
• Citrus Additions: Citrus is the unsung hero and should not be forgotten about. Orange slices are common, but you can also add lemon for a contrasting balance of sweet and tart. But don’t stop there! As we head into Thanksigiving, try throwing some cranberries into the mix. Or, one of our favourite Christmas cocktails, is Blackberry Mulled Wine which adds depth to the flavour profile. 
• Bonus Ingredients: Want to kick things up a notch? Add in Brandy or Bourbon for an extra layer of warmth and complexity. The spirit will complement the spices, elevating them to a new level. Remember, a little goes a long way, and you don’t want to overpower the wine.
• Garnishes and Presentation: Part of what makes the classic cocktail so iconic is the garnishes that go with it! Whether creating a single serving or a pitcher for a crowd, consider adding some cinnamon sticks, fresh citrus or berries, or float a star anise pod in your glass.

Elevate the Experience with the Perfect Pairing

Making a delicious pot of mulled wine is just the beginning. To really bring the experience to life, you’ll want to think beyond the ingredients and get creative with how you serve and enjoy it. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to enjoy a quiet evening in, here are a few ways to elevate your mulled wine game and impress your guests—or just treat yourself!

• Cheese Boards: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses, like aged cheddar, brie, or gouda, paired with some dried fruits and crackers, makes for a delightful contrast to the sweetness and spice of the wine. The saltiness of the cheese cuts through the richness of the mulled wine, creating a beautiful balance. Follow our guide for How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board. 
• Roasted Nuts: Roasting nuts on the fire doesn’t have to be saved exclusively for Christmas carols. A bowl of Mixed Candied Nuts adds the perfect touch of sweetness and a perfect crunch.
• Butternut Squash Soup: Who said your cocktail can't be paired with your dinner? A savoury option, the creamy, slightly sweet flavour of butternut squash soup pairs well with the sweetness and spice of mulled wine. The richness of the soup is balanced by the acidity and warmth of the wine. Find our favourite Butternut Squash Soup recipe here.

There’s something undeniably special about a warm cup of mulled wine as the cool autumn air sets in. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together, whether enjoying it at a holiday gathering or winding down with a good book by the fire. At Angry Otter Liquor, we’re all about celebrating those cozy moments, and we believe that mulled wine is the perfect way to toast to the season.

With endless possibilities for customizing your recipe, from bold red wines and unique spices to fun garnishes and food pairings, mulled wine is a versatile winter classic that can be tailored to your tastes. And with a few simple ingredients, you can turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.

So, the next time the temperature dips, why not warm things up with a pot of your own homemade mulled wine? Stop by your local Angry Otter Liquor to pick up the wine and get ready to enjoy the ultimate autumn tradition. Cheers to cozy nights and delicious sips!