Mulled Wine vs Glühwein: A Seasonal Classic, Two Ways

As Winter Arrives, So Does Spiced Wine Season

Across Europe and beyond, the arrival of winter brings with it a time-honoured ritual: spiced red wine, served warm and fragrant with citrus and festive spice. Whether it’s classic mulled wine or glühwein at a German Weihnachtsmarkt, this comforting drink is about more than taste — it’s about slowing down, warming up, and celebrating the season.

At Wine Dine Combine, we’re all about storytelling through wine — and there’s no better time to dive into these two seasonal classics than now.

Ancient Origins of Spiced Wine

Spiced wine isn’t new — far from it. In fact, it dates back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians are believed to have infused wine with herbs and spices as early as 3150 BC, both for flavour and medicinal purposes. The Romans later adopted the idea, spreading it across Europe. Over time, it evolved through the Middle Ages into what we now know as mulled wine and glühwein.

What’s the Difference Between Mulled Wine and Glühwein?

Short answer? Not much, but enough to make each version unique. Both drinks are based on heated red wine, sweetened and infused with winter spices.

Mulled Wine is more common across the Balkans, UK, France, Scandinavia, and beyond.
Glühwein is the German and Austrian interpretation, often served at Christmas markets and known for its “glow” (hence the name).

While the spices overlap, regional traditions influence which ingredients make it into the pot — and how they’re served.

Mulled Wine Recipe – Classic

This version is mellow, sweet, and fruit-forward.

Ingredients

1L dry red wine (e.g. Merlot, Shiraz)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tbsp whole cloves
1 tbsp allspice
Peel of 1 orange & 1 lemon
2–4 tbsp sugar (or honey, for a traditional twist)
Optional: raisins, almonds for depth

Method:
Warm gently in a saucepan without boiling. Let infuse for 15–20 minutes. Serve steaming in mugs or heatproof glasses.

Glühwein Recipe – The German Favourite

The unmistakable aroma of glühwein fills the air at festive markets in Berlin, Vienna, and beyond.

Ingredients

500ml red wine
100ml water
1 cinnamon stick
10 cloves
1 star anise
½ vanilla bean
A pinch of nutmeg
1 organic orange (sliced)
Sugar to taste

Method:
Simmer gently, never boil. Let the spices infuse, then strain and serve hot.

Pro Tip: Some regions of Germany add a splash of rum or amaretto for an extra kick.

What Wine Should You Use for Mulling?

Don’t skimp on quality — a good spiced wine starts with a good base wine.
Look for full-bodied, fruit-forward reds like:

Cabernet Sauvignon – depth, dark fruit, spice
Merlot – soft, round, warming
Zinfandel or Shiraz – bold, ripe, and expressive

Avoid overly tannic or oaked wines, which can clash with the spices.

Slow Down, Sip Warm, and Share the Moment

Whether you lean to classics with mulled wine or go full German with glühwein, both drinks are an invitation to slow down, gather close, and savour tradition. At Wine Dine Combine, we believe in telling the stories behind what’s in your glass — and in winter, few stories are more heartfelt than these.

Want More?

📺 Watch our wine travel episodes: YouTube
📸 Behind the scenes, reels, and recipes: Instagram
💬 Join the conversation: Facebook
🌍 Full archive and blog: WineDineCombine.com
❤️ Support us: Patreon

Join Us

Be the part of our community across various platforms.

Access our playlists for Full Shows and Shorts.

Engage with our daily cuts and content, including videos, images, and links.