Glühwein is a warm, spiced wine that is traditionally served during the winter months, especially at German Christmas markets. The combination of red wine, citrus, and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves makes it a cozy and festive drink. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Glühwein is easy to make and fills your home with delightful aromas as it simmers.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (a dry wine like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir works well)
- 1 orange, sliced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 whole cloves
- 3-4 star anise
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions:
- Prepare the wine: Pour the bottle of red wine into a large pot or saucepan. Add the orange slices, lemon slices (if using), honey (or sugar), cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and ginger (if using).
- Heat the mixture: Gently heat the wine mixture over medium heat. Be careful not to let it boil, as boiling the wine will reduce its alcohol content and alter the flavor. Heat until it’s warm and fragrant, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the brandy (optional): If you’d like to add extra warmth, stir in the brandy or rum during the last 5 minutes of heating.
- Simmer and serve: Once the Glühwein is heated through and the spices have infused, remove the pot from heat. Strain the Glühwein to remove the spices and citrus slices.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the Glühwein into mugs and garnish with fresh orange slices or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch. Serve warm.
Tips:
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or sugar as needed.
- Feel free to customize the spices to your liking by adding cardamom, nutmeg, or allspice.
This Glühwein is a perfect winter drink, warming both your body and soul. Serve it at holiday parties, Christmas dinners, or enjoy it by the fire on a cold evening!
