Sipping Into Sweater Weather: A Mulled Wine Recipe to Warm Your Soul

When the temps start dropping, and the scarves come out, there’s one cozy concoction we all secretly crave—mulled wine! Imagine a drink that smells like a holiday candle but tastes a hundred times better (and gives you a warm buzz to boot). Whether you're hosting a festive gathering, impressing a date, or just looking for a warm hug in a mug, mulled wine is a go-to, and this version comes with a few quirky twists to make it all the more magical.

Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to mulled wine, complete with a recipe that will make you the holiday hero and cheese pairings that'll take your tastebuds on a journey.

Traditional mulled wine is great, but why not take it up a notch? A bit of cinnamon and cloves is classic, sure, but we’re adding in some extras that’ll have everyone at your table asking, "What's in this?"

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well, but nothing too fancy)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup if you're feeling a bit rustic

• 1 orange, sliced (leave the peel on for extra flavor)

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 4 whole cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 star anise

• 1 vanilla bean, split open (or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract if you’re fresh out of beans)

• A sprig of rosemary (adds an earthy touch)

• A splash of brandy (optional, but encouraged if you want a bit more "holiday spirit")

Fun Add-Ons to Make It Your Own:

1. Cranberries: Fresh or dried for a tart zing and a festive pop of color.

2. Chili Pepper: Hear me out—just a tiny sliver of fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes adds a sneaky warmth that pairs beautifully with red wine.

3. Cardamom Pods: A couple of these little green pods will elevate your mulled wine to "What’s that secret ingredient?!" status.

4. Bourbon or spiced rum: Swap out the brandy for one of these to give your mulled wine a flavor twist that’s oh-so-warm and inviting.

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, pour in the wine and add all the ingredients except for the brandy. Give it a gentle stir to let the flavors start mingling.

2. Heat on low (key word here: low!) until it's just below simmering. You don’t want to boil off the alcohol (because, let’s be real, what’s the point of mulled wine without the wine?).

3. Once it’s warm, let it steep for 15-20 minutes. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavors will be.

4. If you’re feeling fancy, fish out the orange slices and any other chunky bits before serving. Add a splash of brandy if you want an extra kick, then pour into mugs.

5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a fresh orange slice, or a sprig of rosemary to make it Instagram-worthy. Sip, savor, and soak in that holiday vibe.

Perfect Cheese Pairings for Your Mulled Wine

Alright, here’s where the magic happens. Mulled wine’s bold, warm flavors call for cheeses that can stand up to it. Think creamy, nutty, and a little funky. Here are a few pairings that will have your tastebuds thanking you.

• Beehive Cheese – Known for their flavor-infused options like Barely Buzzed, a cheddar rubbed with espresso and lavender, which could add an interesting twist alongside mulled wine.

• Castello – They offer a range of options, including creamy blues and tangy Havarti cheeses, perfect for adding a savory element to your spread.

• Murray’s Cheese – This brand has an impressive selection, especially their Brie and Manchego, which are perfect matches for mulled wine’s warm spices.

• Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. – Their Original Blue is a top choice if you’re looking to add a bold, tangy bite.

• Old Amsterdam – Their aged Gouda is rich, caramel-like, and nutty, and it pairs exceptionally well with the fruity undertones of mulled wine.

• Tillamook – Their Smoked Cheddar brings a savory, smoky flavor that complements the spices in mulled wine, perfect for cozying up on a chilly night.

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Why Mulled Wine Will Always Be #WinterVibes

So there you have it: a foolproof recipe for mulled wine with all the extras and cheese pairings to boot. This is the drink that turns any ordinary night into a cozy gathering, an instant “self-care” moment in a cup. Plus, who doesn’t love a warm drink with a side of fancy cheese?

Next time you’re tempted to order a $7 peppermint mocha, remember this: mulled wine is the OG winter warmer. Whether you’re making it for friends or just sipping solo by a fireplace (or your Netflix fireplace), this recipe has you covered for a night of cozy vibes and delicious flavors.

Grab your ingredients, put on a playlist, and get ready to mull things over with a glass in hand.