How to Choose Wine for Mulled Wine and Which Varieties Are Suitable? 0 4

At first glance, it seems simple: buy inexpensive dry red wine and follow the recipe: sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lemon — variations are possible here. But it’s not that straightforward. The wine plays a key role in quality mulled wine. On the other hand, choosing 'something more decent' is also not an optimal solution.

The wine must be heat-resistant

Wine connoisseurs know that serving temperature is of great importance. It depends on the variety of wine and allows no mistakes. If you err by three to four degrees in either direction, it can spoil the bouquet. Some wines significantly lose their taste qualities when heated: alcoholic notes and unpleasant aromas become pronounced. This applies, for example, to Pinot Noir from various regions, Cabernet (although it is often recommended for mulled wine), Beaujolais, and most young wines.

In contrast, powerful full-bodied red wine varieties — Saperavi, Merlot, Malbec, Shiraz — retain their nobility when heated. They are unlikely to be as cheap as some 'Monastery Mushroom' from a carton, but there are plenty of quality inexpensive options from these varieties. Worried that tannic wines might leave an unpleasant aftertaste in the morning? Don’t worry, choose mulled wine recipes that include water.

Mulled Wine from White Wine

There is another interesting point: mulled wine can be made not only from red wine. White wine is also suitable. However, it should not be too acidic, as acidity increases when heated. So, Aligoté — no. But Chardonnay — yes. Muscat and Gewürztraminer are also suitable. As for Riesling, it depends on the specific wine; not all Rieslings have the same acidity. Moreover, it is better to add orange rather than lemon to white mulled wine. And one more important point: it is strictly forbidden to use ground spices — only whole cinnamon sticks, star anise, and so on. This rule also applies to red mulled wine, but it is not as critical. However, cloudy white mulled wine is indeed a sad sight.

And finally, regarding sugar content. Dry and semi-dry wines are suitable for mulled wine. This is a paradox, although it seems we still add sugar. But taste, richness, and strength matter much more.