Mulled White Wine
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This warming mulled white wine incorporates everything we love about its classic red counterpart but maintains a lighter body that's perfect for simmering away with citrus, honey, and deep, aromatic spices. It's a crisper, lighter option that still hugs on to mulled wine's cozy appeal.
Warming drinks on the mind? Try this brandy mulled wine or cranberry hot toddy.
When you think about mulled wine, you probably picture a beautiful red wine base. This recipe answers the question: can you make mulled wine with white wine ā it's a resounding YES! It warms up your core on chilly nights and makes the house smell absolutely amazing.
Ingredients needed
This is what you'll need for this mulled white wine recipe:
- White wine āĀ A bottle of a medium-bodied white wine serves as the base of the recipe.
- Honey ā Adds a natural sweetness.
- Brandy ā Optional, but if included it can enhance the depth and warmth, making it a bit richer.
- Spices ā Whole cloves, ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and whole peppercorns infuse the wine with complex warmth.
- Orange ā Adds a citrusy, zesty note.
How to make mulled white wine
White mulled wine might sound a little bit fancy, but this recipe is as easy as putting things in a pot and waiting for it to simmer. You'll be savoring warming sips in no time:
- Combine ā Put all the ingredients into a medium pot.
- Simmer ā On medium heat, gently simmer everything for 20 minutes.
- Strain and serve ā When finished, strain it into mugs. Decorate with a cinnamon stick for cozy vibes, or add a few bits of orange pieces or orange peel, and enjoy!
Variations to try
White wine becomes a canvas for any variations you can imagine! Here are some to try:
- Fruits: Incorporate slices of apple, pear, or white grapes. Go festive with cranberries, or add a handful of any other fresh berries. A small amount of lemon slices will bring out more citrus notes.
- Juices:Ā For more of a sangria vibe, you can also splash in some fruit juices, such as orange juice.
- Herbal infusions:Ā Rosemary, thyme, or basil infuse a unique herbal essence.
- Sweetener:Ā You can use maple syrup instead of honey if needed, or if you like it really sweet, add some brown sugar.
- Vanilla: Split a vanilla bean or add a drop of extract for a subtle note of vanilla.
- Liqueurs: Sub out the brandy in favor of flavored liqueurs, such as fruit liqueurs or nut liqueurs. Spiced rum, amaretto or elderflower liqueur are top of our list.
- Chili:Ā If you enjoy a gentle kick, add a small, sliced chili.
What type of wine is best for mulled white wine?
Mulled white wine works best with medium-bodied white wines. Keep in mind that a wine's body can differ depending on how it's produced, but generally medium white wines have an alcohol content ranging between 12.5% and 13.5%. Some suggested medium bodied wines are below, but you can always refer to the label to double check:Ā
- Chardonnay
- Pinot gris/grigio
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Riesling
- Viognier
- or Pinot Blanc
Why use a white wine over a red for mulled wine?
White wine is generally crisper and lighter, making it a more refreshing choice than a robust red. It complements a different flavor profile, so it's ideal if you want the cozy appeal of mulled wine, but crispier, fruitier, or with zestier notes. Plus, it's less likely to stain, making it a practical choice for gatherings.
What to serve with mulled white wine
As a warm and aromatic beverage, mulled white wine works well with a variety of dishes. We love it with cheese, salmon dishes, or indulgent chocolate. Here are our top picks:
Recipe FAQs
Can I reduce the alcohol content?
Yes, you can omit the brandy, or cook the mulled wine mixture further. Boil it with the lid on to cook off some of the alcohol.
How long can I keep this on the stove?
You can keep the mulled wine warm in the dutch oven, pot, or slow cooker on the very lowest setting for up to 3 hours.
Can I store this and reheat it?
White mulled wine is best enjoyed freshly warmed ā reheating can cause some flavors to change or dissipate. If you do want to store leftovers, allow the mulled wine to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it over low to medium heat, being careful not to boil.
More warm cocktails
Mulled White Wine Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bottle medium-bodied white wine
- Ā¼ cup honey
- Ā¼ cup brandy (optional)
- Ā½ teaspoon EACH: whole cloves and whole peppercorns
- 1 naval orange (sliced)
- 4 slices fresh ginger
- 4 star anise
- 4 5-inch cinnamon sticks (plus more to garnish)
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a medium-sized pot.1 bottle medium-bodied white wine, Ā¼ cup honey, Ā¼ cup brandy, Ā½ teaspoon EACH: whole cloves and whole peppercorns, 1 naval orange, 4 slices fresh ginger, 4 star anise, 4 5-inch cinnamon sticks
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat and then reduce the temperature to low, cover the pot, and very gently simmer for 20 minutes.
- To serve, strain the mulled white wine into mugs and, if you'd like, garnish with a cinnamon stick. NOTE: You can keep the mulled wine warm on the element on the very lowest setting for up to 3 hours.
Notes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
For more inspiration, check out all of our cocktail recipes!
A refreshing and delicious recipe for the holiday. Thanks for sharing.
This was such a quick and easy recipe that does not disappoint; the best way to warm up on a winter night, indeed!
I usually make mulled red wine but never thought to make mulled white wine before I found your recipe!! Can’t wait to make this again for the holidays!
Love this Mulled White Wine recipe, perfect for these cold days. I definitely will make this again soon. Was delicious. Thanks for sharing š
This Mulled white wine is new to me but it was absolutely cozy and delightful. I can’t wait to make this again.