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I am a wine lover through and through, so much so I got a master's degree in it! Crisp, cold wines, refreshing rosés, and bold reds all do it for me. And when the winter chill sets in, there's one wine that never fails to delight - Glühwein, or mulled wine. This beloved winter beverage, infused with aromatic spices and the comforting embrace of heated wine, has a rich history and is celebrated in various forms across Europe. Even if you can’t visit the following spots this winter, you can still make your own mulled wine at home and pretend you are exploring the snowy European streets. Let’s dive in!
What Is Glühwein (Mulled) Wine Made Of?
Glühwein, known as mulled wine in many parts of the world, is a beloved cold-weather drink. It is typically crafted by warming red wine and infusing it with a blend of spices and sweeteners. Common ingredients include cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, citrus peels, and sugar or honey to taste. This delightful concoction is simmered gently to meld the flavors, creating a beverage that's as much a sensory experience as it is a drink.
✈️ Pro Tip: Get into the holiday spirit by visiting one of these Best European Christmas Markets.
Grab A Glass Of Glühwein At These Top Cities
Nothing feels more festive than enjoying a glass of Glühwein while wandering through a snowy town. If you’re looking for the top spots to sip on mulled wine in Europe, look no further than the following destinations.
Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany, is renowned for its traditional Glühwein, often served during the festive season, especially at the iconic Marienplatz Christmas Market. Strolling through the picturesque market, you can feel the warmth of the season in the air as you savor your hot cup of Glühwein, surrounded by glittering lights and festive cheer.
Prague, Czech Republic:
In Prague, you can experience the aromatic and flavorful Svařák, a Czech version of mulled wine, often available at the Prague Christmas Markets. The medieval architecture of the city provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cup of Svařák and immersing yourself in the holiday spirit. I got my mulled wine to go so I could keep warm while wandering through Prague’s charming cobblestone streets. It was the perfect pick me up to keep me energized in the cold.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria, is famous for its high-quality Glühwein, often enjoyed at the beautiful Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt and other Christmas markets. With the stunning backdrop of Vienna's imperial architecture, a sip of Glühwein becomes an experience you won't soon forget.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is home to Christkindelsmärik, one of Europe's oldest and most charming Christmas markets, where you can savor exquisite mulled wine. The delicate blend of spices and the French touch make this Glühwein experience truly unique.
Copenhagen, Denmark:
Copenhagen offers delightful Glogg, the Danish version of mulled wine, typically enjoyed during the festive season at Christmas markets like Tivoli Gardens. Sipping on Glogg in the enchanting atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens is a true Danish winter tradition.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is noted for its Vin Chaud, a warm spiced wine, often found at the Brussels Christmas Market and other seasonal events. While exploring the city's historic streets, you can warm up with a cup of Vin Chaud and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Belgium. While sipping on your Vin Chaud, grab a Brussels waffle topped with decadent Belgian chocolate for the ultimate food pairing.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, a city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, has more than just its picturesque views to offer. Among its winter delights is the unique mulled wine known as Forralt Bor, which you can often find at the Budapest Christmas Market and various winter festivals. Forralt Bor is not your average mulled wine; it's a flavorful concoction that embodies the essence of Hungarian cuisine. It's infused with a blend of traditional Hungarian spices and sometimes even a touch of local fruit brandy, adding a layer of depth to the beverage.
Zurich, Switzerland
Imagine sipping on a steaming cup of Glühwein against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the twinkling lights of Zurich's enchanting markets. Zurich offers delicious Glühwein, usually served during the festive season at Zurich's Christkindlimarkt and other Christmas markets. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and appreciate the picturesque beauty of Zurich.
✈️ Pro Tip: Hungover from drinking too much mulled wine? You’ll be glad you packed these Medications You Should Always Pack When Traveling.
Can’t Travel? Make Your Own Mulled Wine
If you can't travel to these wonderful cities, don't worry; you can bring the spirit of Glühwein right into your home. Making your own mulled wine is easy and allows you to customize it to your taste. To make your own Glühwein you'll need:
1 bottle of red wine
3/4 to 1 c. of Cointreau depending on preference
Spices - cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves
Fresh oranges
Either a squeeze of honey or 1/4 c. of sugar
Combine ingredients in a big pot and heat the mixture gently without boiling. Allow the flavors to meld for about 15-20 minutes. Once it's hot and aromatic, serve it in mugs with a slice of orange and some spices. Enjoy the charm of a European Christmas market in your own cozy space.
Warm Up With A Cup Of Glühwein
As winter approaches and the holidays draw near, there's no better way to embrace the season than by savoring a cup of Glühwein, whether you find yourself in one of these enchanting cities or create your own festive atmosphere at home. The warm, spicy, and aromatic embrace of mulled wine is a time-honored tradition that unites people in celebration, no matter where they are in the world. Cheers!
Have you ever tried mulled wine before? Let me know if you liked it in the comments!