German Mulled Wine (Glühwein)

The mulled wine stands at Germany’s famous Christmas markets—Christkindlmärkte—inspired us for this recipe. Whenever we got too cold wandering a market, we’d sidle up to the nearest stand and order glühwein served in a festive mug designed just for that year. After a few sips of this hot brew of spices, sugar, citrus, wine, and booze, we’d have new energy to push on through the chill. Here, you remove strips lemon and orange zest, and place them in a saucepan with the juice. Add a cheesecloth bundle of spices (cloves and cardamom), add sugar, water, and cinnamon, and simmer add. Add red wine and brandy, heat, and you’re ready to provide mirth to a holiday party. Keep mulled wine warm in a slow cooker and let guests help themselves.

Equipment note: You’ll need cheesecloth and butcher’s twine for this recipe.

For other winter warmers, check out our Fernet Apple Hot Toddy, Hot Mulled Sherried Apple Cider, or Smoking Bishop. And see our Slow Cooker Cocktails round-up for even more wonderfully cozy ideas.