It is part of winter and of Christmas time: the mulled wine warms body and soul
Mulled wine, called 'Glühwein' in German, is a very special remedy for cold evenings, such as during a visit to a Christmas market. It is particularly appealing in this setting and is perfect for a cosy get-together with friends.
This warming beverage is composed of a high quality dry red wine, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, cardamom and some slices of a natural lemon or orange. These ingredients are heated all together but attention, don't bring them to boil. From 83°C up the alcohol vaporises and the ingredients change flavour. After about 5 minutes take it from the stove and simmer it for about one hour. Before serving, re-heat the mixture and filter it.
There are different recipes for the preparation of mulled wine, and even with white wine you can make a delicious one. A good mulled wine contains at least 7% of alcohol and you should use high quality wines for the production.
The idea of mulled wine dates back to antiquity. The forerunner of mulled wine was called Conditum Paradoxum, while the Hypocras was its cold counterpart, an aromatic wine for summertime. Also spices alone have a warming effect. Both wines were a mixture of wine, honey, pepper, herbs and other spices.
The so-called children's mulled wine is offered as an alcohol-free alternative. It is usually a warm apple juice prepared with cinnamon, lemon/orange and cloves, also known as 'Apfelglühmix' here in South Tyrol.
