You've heard all the rage about Gluhwein or Mulled Wine, maybe from your friends and their après ski antics, or maybe you've visited a Euro Christmas market or two. But to recreate those 'glow wine feelings', admittedly isn't the simplest thing to make, especially if you don't consider yourself a gourmet chef. This is undoubtedly the easiest mulled wine recipe you'll ever find - and it's only 3 ingredients.
What is Glühwein, and how do I say it?
Mulled wine, also known as spiced wine, is a beverage usually made with red wine along with various mulling spices and fruits like orange or raisins. It is served hot or warm and is alcoholic, although there are non-alcoholic versions of it. "Glühwein" is the German name, translated means "glow wine". The Swedes call it "Gløgg". If you're a Frozen fan, this is what Prince Hans says is available in the Great Hall to keep the townspeople of Arendelle warm. In Europe, it has been around for centuries and is the highlight of many Christmas markets. To pronounce 'Glühwein', say 'glue' and 'vine'.
What's great about Red Elk's Gluhwein Mulled Wine Syrup is it's so easy to recreate mulled wine. The spices are already in the bottle, just add wine, heat and drink. Simple!
The Recipe
Note: This recipe is made in ratios, for ease of use if you're making a large batch for entertaining or a glass for yourself.
(For example, if you were to make a 300ml cup, the ratio 1:4:1 would be 1 part = 50ml)
Ingredients
Red wine (an inexpensive bottle of Merlot or Shiraz works best)
Water
Selection of garnishes, like sliced apple, cinnamon sticks, orange peel or star anise (optional)
Method In a heatproof jug mix 1 part Red Elk Gluhwein syrup with 4 parts red wine and 1 part water.
Heat in the microwave until warm at desired temperature (65C - 70C is ideal.)
DO NOT BOIL, unless you want the alcohol to evaporate!
Serve in a mug or glass tumbler and garnish (optional).
Some ideas...
Pre-heat your mug or glass with some hot water before serving, so the mulled wine won't cool off as quickly.
You can also make mulled wine in a slow cooker. This is useful if you're entertaining and it makes your home smell like Christmas. Make the above recipe in a slow cooker, then turn dial to 'HIGH' for 30 minutes. Then, turn dial to 'KEEP WARM' to maintain the temperature for your guests. Alternately, you can make recipe in a heat proof jug, heat in microwave to desired temperature, then pour into slow cooker and turn dial to 'KEEP WARM'. Keep a ladle handy so guests can serve themselves.
You can also make this recipe ahead of time and store in a jug in the fridge and use when it's ready to be heated.