There's a certain warmth that comes from sipping mulled wine from a cozy mug. The delightful combination of honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and aromatic spices creates a comforting experience. Whether at festive markets or gatherings, nothing beats the charm of homemade mulled wine simmering on your stovetop or in a slow cooker. To achieve the perfect blend, knowing how to choose the right wines is essential.
I spoke with a passionate winemaker who is dedicated to making wine more accessible. He co-founded a California wine brand that focuses on quality wines with fewer calories and lower alcohol content. With his innovative approach, he's the perfect person to share insights on mulled wine.
Featured image by Kristen Kilpatrick.
Meet the Expert
Before diving into mulled wine specifics, I wanted to learn about his journey in the wine industry. He shared that focusing on lower ABV options stemmed from a desire to innovate. "We recognized a chance to enhance the sparkling wine sector, emphasizing modernization in the wine realm," he explained.
His comments sparked a thought about the evolving drinking culture. Movements promoting moderation have gained traction, and this brand seeks to cater to diverse consumer preferences. "With more brands offering lower-alcohol options, it's clear that there's a demand for something different. Younger consumers gravitate towards lower alcohol, while older consumers appreciate low-calorie choices. We may not appeal to everyone, but we've gained support across various demographics," he noted.
In discussing these shifts, he emphasized the importance of transparency. "Providing choices and clearly communicating what consumers are getting matters most."
Understanding Mulled Wine
Now, let's explore mulled wine. This traditional beverage shines during the holiday season. While enjoyed in the U.S., its origins trace back to Europe, where it's known as glühwein in Germany and glögg in Nordic countries.
Recipes vary widely, often featuring red wine, mulling spices like cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, along with dried fruits like apples and oranges. The result is a sweet, spiced, and fruity drink—ideal for warming up during the winter months.
Does Wine Quality Matter?
This brings up the crucial question: Does wine quality impact mulled wine? Initially, I thought the added spices would mask any inferior wine quality. But I learned I was mistaken. According to the expert, "The quality of ingredients is crucial for the final flavor. The wine serves as the foundation for your drink."
Fortunately, you needn't break the bank. "Look for well-crafted wines without additives. Focus on finding a wine that aligns with your vision for your mulled creation," he advised. Consider what flavor profile you desire: heavier, spicier, or sweeter.
Top Wine Choices for Mulled Wine
Let's get to the good stuff: his top wine picks for creating the ultimate cozy mulled wine. He shared recommendations across several categories: Zinfandel, white wine, boxed wine, Merlot, and Brandy. Read on for his insights!
Zinfandel
"Zinfandel stands out as a classic choice," he noted. "It offers jammy, fruity notes without overwhelming tannins, making it ideal for mulled wine."
Bedrock Wine Company California Old Vine Zinfandel
Exceptional Zinfandels from Lodi, California, like Bedrock, deliver excellent spice notes. It's a splurge, but well worth it.
Plungerhead Old Vine Zinfandel
This Lodi wine features deep plum and raspberry flavors, rich mouthfeel, and a sweet cinnamon kick, perfect for mulled wine.
Libby Red Blend
This sparkling blend of blackberry, cranberry, and violet makes a festive addition to any holiday gathering.
Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2019
A vibrant Grenache with fruity aromas and a floral touch, it's an exciting choice for mulled wine.
Merlot
Opting for Merlot offers a different mulled wine experience. "It's smooth and velvety," he explained. Aim for fruit-forward options to strike the right balance.
Bonterra Organically Grown Merlot 2020
This crimson Merlot features rich strawberry and pomegranate flavors, complemented by a subtle herbaceous note.
With layered fruity aromas and a hint of spice, this approachable Merlot comes at a great price.
A smooth, medium-bodied red offering a lovely finish.
White Wine
"I've never made white mulled wine," he confessed, "but it's an interesting concept. You could highlight citrus flavors and build spice around them. Fuller-bodied whites, like Viognier, would work well, offering texture without being overly buttery."
This refreshing blend combines citrus aromas with peach and floral notes, making it a delightful choice.
An earthier white, this fruity wine is perfect for a citrus-forward mulled creation.
This Viognier presents stone fruit aromas—peach, pear, and apricot—with a luxurious finish.
Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2020
This lively white offers a fruity and rich palate that is beautifully balanced.
Boxed Wine
He acknowledges the advantages of boxed wine, noting, "You get great value for your money. Look for Zinfandel or Merlot and avoid overly sweet options."
This easy-drinking red blend combines fruity notes with cocoa and hints of spice, perfect for larger gatherings.
A rich, layered dry red that presents ripe red fruit flavors alongside sweet, spicy oak undertones.
Brandy
Brandy is experiencing a revival. "You can find a range of prices, and one bottle can last quite a while," he noted.
This complex blend of apple and pear features notes of honeysuckle and cherry blossom, with hints of cinnamon and brown sugar.
Sweet caramel and vanilla notes are complemented by dark chocolate, pear, and jasmine, finishing with a spicy note.
