Cranberry Mulled Wine
When I think of Mulled Wine, I think of the German version called Gluehwein which we enjoyed while strolling the outdoor Christmas markets. This is my favorite version of this German drink that I serve on Christmas Eve. I think you will love my Cranberry Mulled Wine Recipe.
When our family gets together on Christmas Eve, we have lots of appetizers and cocktails and homemade clam chowder. This Cranberry Mulled Wine has become a Christmas Eve staple in our home.
When we lived in Europe, going to Germany for Christmas was a must – especially going to the outdoor markets. If you’ve never been to the German Christmas Markets – and especially the ones in Bavaria – you need to add this to your bucket list. Mulled Wine is served at all markets and everyone has their own recipe and variation.
Now I will say this – Mulled Wine is not for everyone. I think first of all, you must like wine. 🙂 To some, the thoughts of drinking a warmed wine may not sound very appetizing. But, once you have this cocktail thats been saturated with citrus, spices and kicked up a few notches with some Brandy and Orange Liqueur – it takes on a magical and comforting taste that just feels like Christmas. The best way to describe Mulled Wine is a dressed up cider in some ways. I think everyone should try it. It’s a perfect cold-weather sipping drink. I like to serve it in small glasses or even Irish Coffee glasses will do.
You don’t need a super expensive wine, and in fact, I use an averaged priced wine – about $6 a bottle. There isn’t any reason to use a high end wine when you will be adding other ingredients to it. I usually make mine on the stove top in a large pot, but you can also make it in a slow cooker on the warm setting. The spices and the citruses work as a natural room refresher and your home will smell amazing!!!! I hope you will give this Cranberry Mulled Wine Recipe a try this year. It’s something unexpected to add to your holiday menu.
Enjoy….xxoo, barb


- 1 Bottle Merlot, Cabernet or Zinfandel (nothing too sweet like a Reisling)
- 2 Cups pulp-free orange juice
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, washed well
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2-3 whole star anise
- 1 medium orange, washed and sliced into thinner rounds
- 2 Tbs whole cloves
- 2-3 3" cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 Cup Brandy
- 3 Tbs Orange Liqueur *(opt)
- Add all ingredients to a large pot ot crock pot accept the Brandy and the Orange Liqueur. Allow to simmer on low for 2-3 hours, making sure the berries are soft. Be careful that it doesn't come to a boil, but stays at a low simmer.
- Pour mulled wine into a strainer over a large bowl or pot. I like to use a metal spoon to mash on the fruit and extract all the yumminess from them as possible.
- Add the strained wine back to your pot or slow cooker, then add the Brandy and Liqueur. Taste. If you prefer a sweeter mulled wine you can add a bit more sugar - a Tablespoon at a time. Stir to dissolve and taste again. I prefer a sweet-tart flavor.
- Ladel mulled wine into mug of choice and garnish with a cinnamon stick, fresh cranberries or a star anise etc.

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Barb I’m sorry to hear that you are dealing with some depression. I too suffer from this as did my mother. This time of year is especially hard for me. You seem very close to your family and spending time with them will help. I think depression sometimes effects those of us who are basically people pleasers more than others. We care so much and put others before ourselves. Take time for you and do something just for yourself that makes you happy. I enjoy reading your blog and look forward to whatever you have in store for 2018. My thoughts are with you and I wish you happiness this holiday season and in the coming year.
View CommentOh wow!!! If only I could drink alcohol but such an allergy to alcohol … Sounds wonderful and thank you for sharing
View CommentThis recipe sounds so delicious. I want to try it for our Christmas party this year. Thanks for sharing!
View CommentSounds wonderful – can’t wait to try it!
View CommentHI Barb! and Merry Christmas! I am so sorry you are dealing with some depression right now. I have been there too. I hope you are able to get the issue resolved soon and can get back to enjoying you family and babies. Thank you for all you share with us!
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