December 1, 2025 | Mulled wine is the classic warm drink we find at Christmas markets, its spicy aroma instantly bringing winter to mind! What could be better for warming up on cold winter days?! In the past, it was considered a natural remedy for seasonal illnesses, and it was also commonly offered as a digestive after meals.

[If you want to discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in Florence, read this article !]

The origins

Its origins are ancient. The Greeks were already preparing a warm, spiced wine that they called conditum paradoxum, and the Romans loved it as well. One of the earliest references can be found in Apicius, a famous Roman cook and gastronome. In the collection attributed to him, “De re Coquinaria”, is mentioned a heated wine flavored with spices.

At first, pepper was used, later replaced with cinnamon, and honey was used as a sweetener. It seems this choice was linked to the doctor Hippocrates, who strongly believed in the properties of spices!

Over time, the drink spread throughout Europe, giving rise to several versions, each based on local products and tastes.

The Spread across Europe

In Italy, the name “vin brulé” comes from the French Valdostan dialect and literally means “burnt wine.”

In England, it’s called mulled wine. It’s common to use nutmeg and raisins, sometimes maple syrup, and a drop of brandy.

In France, contrary to expectations, mulled wine is known as vin chaud. The French prefer something lighter, less spicy and less sweet. To sweeten it, honey and brown sugar are more common, and it’s also quite typical to add a bit of Cognac.

In Germany, we find Glühwein. The German version often includes cardamom and cranberries; sometimes vanilla is used, and rum or amaretto liqueur are popular additions.

Moving a bit further north, in the Scandinavian countries people drink glögg. Here it’s common to add almonds, raisins, and cardamom, and often strong liqueur such as vodka, bourbon, white whiskey or rum.

The Swedes turned glögg into a Christmas symbol in the 19th century!

Different countries, different recipes…

There isn’t just one traditional recipe for mulled wine, because every country, and often every region, has its own version. Even the type of wine changes depending on the area! For a good mulled wine, you need a full-bodied, aromatic, and high-quality wine.

Which wine should you use?

In Tuscany, Sangiovese is very popular; in Emilia, Lambrusco Grasparossa is often used; in Veneto, people prefer Cabernet Sauvignon; and in the Langhe, some even use Barolo… What an aroma!

And now, to finish in true Christmas spirit, here’s a simple and fragrant recipe for an excellent mulled wine made with our favorite wines!

Recipe for 4-5 mugs

Ingredients

•  A bottle of Com’Era (or Chianti Superiore Voce alla Terra for a more intense result)
• 20g of sugar
• 1 orange (the zest and a few slices)
•  1 lemon (only the zest)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 cloves
• 1 piece of fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 star anise

Making process

• Pour the sugar in a pan
• Add the spices and the citruses
• Add the wine and mix well
• Put the pan on the heat and make it boil, then let it boil over low heat for 30 mins
• Filter and serve warm… now the whole house will smell like Christmas!