Warm Up the Holidays with Mulled Wine: History, Recipes & Herbal Twists
- Sasha Johnson
- Dec 8, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 1
The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and cozy season is officially here! When it comes to classic Christmas drinks, mulled wine has been a festive favorite for centuries. Whether you're sipping it at a Christmas market in Europe or curled up by the fire at home, there's something undeniably magical about this spiced, warming beverage.
At Catalyst Tea Company, we love honoring tradition—but with our own herbal twist. In this post, we’ll explore the history of mulled wine, share a traditional mulled wine recipe, a family-friendly mulled cider, and a non-alcoholic herbal mulled wine tea that brings all the flavor and cheer without the alcohol.
What Is Mulled Wine?
Mulled wine is a warm drink made by gently heating red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and citrus. It's a holiday staple across Europe, especially in countries like Germany (where it’s called Glühwein), the UK, and the Nordic nations.
But it’s not just about the flavor—mulled wine is a drink of celebration, warmth, and community, traditionally served at winter festivals, family gatherings, and Christmas markets.
A Brief History of Mulled Wine
Mulled wine dates back to ancient Rome, where wine was often heated with spices to preserve it during cold months and to aid digestion. As the Romans expanded across Europe, they brought this drink with them. By the Middle Ages, mulled wine evolved into a luxurious winter beverage enjoyed by nobility, often sweetened with honey and infused with expensive spices brought along trade routes. In Victorian England, it became linked with Christmas celebrations, thanks in part to Charles Dickens, who referenced it in A Christmas Carol as "Smoking Bishop" (a type of mulled claret). Today, mulled wine is a symbol of holiday cheer—warming hearts and hands in cold weather, and perfect for festive parties.
🍷 Traditional Mulled Wine Recipe
If you're looking for the ultimate holiday drink recipe that impresses at your Christmas dinner or cozy gathering, try this simple, aromatic version:
Ingredients:
1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
1 orange (sliced)
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cloves
3 star anise
1/4 cup honey or sugar (to taste)
Optional: a splash of brandy for an extra kick
Instructions:
Pour the wine into a saucepan (don’t boil!).
Add orange slices and spices.
Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes.
Stir in sweetener and brandy, if using.
Serve warm with a cinnamon stick or orange slice garnish.
🍏 Festive Mulled Apple Cider Recipe (Non-Alcoholic)
This family-friendly Christmas drink is a hit with kids and adults alike—full of flavor, warmth, and cheer!
Ingredients:
4 cups apple cider
1 apple (sliced)
1 orange (sliced)
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cloves
1-inch piece of fresh ginger (sliced)
1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a pot.
Simmer for 20–30 minutes (do not boil).
Strain and serve warm.
Perfect for holiday parties, Christmas brunches, or post-sledding warm-ups!
🌿 Herbal Mulled Wine Tea (Alcohol-Free)
For a wellness-forward version, our Herbal Mulled Wine Tea is a soothing, antioxidant-rich alternative that feels indulgent without alcohol. Great for winter tea lovers, holiday wellness routines, or anyone on a sober-curious journey.
Ingredients:
1 tsp dried hibiscus (rich color + tart flavor)
1 tsp elderberries (immune support)
1 cinnamon stick
3 cardamom pods
3 slices dried orange
1 tsp cloves
Optional: dried apple slices or star anise
Instructions:
Combine herbs and spices in a small pot with 2 cups of water.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Strain, sweeten if desired, and enjoy the fragrant goodness!
This herbal mulled wine is caffeine-free and makes the perfect tea for Christmas night, post-dinner wind down, or your next winter solstice ritual.
✨ Fun Facts About Mulled Wine
In Germany, mulled wine is often served with a shot of rum or amaretto.
In Nordic countries, a similar drink called Glögg is served with almonds and raisins.
In France, it’s called Vin Chaud, and often includes black pepper for a spicy kick.
Some believe the spices in mulled wine helped prevent illness during harsh winters before modern medicine.
🫖 Holiday Tea Gifts & Blends
Looking for the perfect Christmas tea gift or something warm and cozy for yourself this season? These winter-inspired tea blends are full of festive flavor, perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with loved ones. Whether you're shopping for a tea lover or building a holiday tea gift box, these blends capture the spirit of the season.
Cranberry-Orange
Tart, fruity, and bright—this tea tastes like a cup of mulled wine, but without the alcohol. Infused with dried cranberries, zesty orange peel, and warming spices, it's a perfect non-alcoholic Christmas tea option.
Christmas Delight
A comforting and festive blend of peppermint, lemon balm, vanilla, orange peel, and cacao nibs. This tea is like a cozy hug in a cup—uplifting, soothing, and perfect for winding down during the holiday rush.
Cacao-Mint Rooibos
Rich South African rooibos meets refreshing peppermint and decadent cacao nibs in this dessert-inspired blend. Naturally caffeine-free and perfect for evenings, it's a soothing treat with a chocolatey twist.
🎁 Bundle them up as part of a Christmas tea gift set, or add them to your holiday party drink bar.
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