Mastering the Art of Mulled Wine with Sincerely, Herbs Mulling Spices

Mulled wine, a beloved seasonal beverage, evokes warmth and cheer with its aromatic spices and rich flavors. While making mulled wine from scratch requires gathering an assortment of spices, using Sincerely, Herbs Mulling Spices simplifies the process without compromising on taste. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned mulled wine enthusiast, here's a guide to help you craft the perfect batch using our mulling spice blend.

Sincerely, Herbs Mulling Spices

First things first, it's important to use high-quality mulling spices to get both the perfect taste and herbal benefits. I use hibiscus, ginger, juniper berries, peppercorns, all spice, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks in our Mulling Spices.  While you can use just these spices and wine, I also like to include either a touch of honey or simple syrup as well as apple, orange, and lemon slices to create the perfect cup of mulled wine.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) of a fruit forward red wine 
• Honey or Simple Syrup to taste
• 1-2 Tbsp of mulling spices 
• Optional: Fruit slices like apples, oranges, and/or lemons
• Optional: brandy or rum for an extra kick

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wine: Pour the red wine into a large saucepan or a slow cooker. Heat it gently over low to medium heat. Avoid boiling the wine as it can alter the taste as well as cook off the alcohol.

2. Add the Mulling Spice Mix: Depending on your taste preference, start by adding 1 Tbsp mulling spice into the warming wine. Stir gently to incorporate the spices. Alternatively you can use a muslin bag with a drawstring, a tea infuser or disposable tea bag to keep the spices contained.

3. Sweeten to Taste:  Gradually add your sweetener of choice (like honey or simple syrup), tasting as you go. The sweetness level can vary based on personal preference and the sweetness of the wine used. 

4. Fruit Infusion (Optional): If desired, add slices of apples, oranges, lemons, or any preferred fruits to the mixture. These will add a delightful tang and aroma to your mulled wine.

5. Simmer and Infuse: Allow the wine and spice mixture to simmer gently for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps infuse the flavors and aromas of the spices into the wine. Stir occasionally.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the mulled wine is infused to your liking, ladle it into heatproof glasses or mugs. If using, add a splash of brandy or rum to each serving for an extra depth of flavor. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a festive touch.

Tips for the Perfect Mulled Wine Experience:

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices or add extra ingredients to tailor the flavor to your liking.
• Don’t Boil: Be cautious not to let the mulled wine boil as high temperatures can evaporate the alcohol and alter the taste.
• Make Ahead: Mulled wine can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, allowing the flavors to meld even more.

Indulging in a warm cup of mulled wine on a chilly evening brings about a sense of comfort and festive spirit. With a quality mulling spice mix and a few simple steps, you can effortlessly create a delightful batch of this beloved seasonal drink to share with friends and family.

Cheers to cozy moments and the joys of the holiday season!