Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine

Non-alcoholic mulled wine is a fantastic way to celebrate the season while keeping your drink options suitable for all ages. This aromatic concoction combines seasonal spices with fruity flavors, creating a cozy drink that warms the heart. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this delicious beverage.

Equipment

You will need a few basic items to make non-alcoholic mulled wine:

Saucepan or Dutch oven: For heating and infusing ingredients.
Fine mesh sieve: To strain spices and fruit pieces from the liquid.
Ladle: For serving.
Cups or glass tumblers: Thick glass is recommended to handle the heat.

Having these items ready ensures a smooth preparation process.

Ingredients

Gather and prepare the following ingredients:

64 oz grape or cranberry juice
1 orange, sliced
1-2 tablespoons honey (optional)
6 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
8 cloves
1 apple, sliced (optional)

Adjust the amount of honey to taste, depending on sweetness preference.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your non-alcoholic mulled wine:

Heat grape or cranberry juice in a saucepan.
Add orange slices, apple slices, if using, and spices.
Stir gently until hot but not boiling.
Infuse for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve.
Serve warm in thick glass tumblers.

This method ensures even flavor distribution.

Tasting Notes

Expect a rich, spiced flavor with aromatic hints from the cinnamon and star anise. The orange and apple infuse a fruity sweetness, balanced by the subtle warmth of cloves. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, making it a comforting beverage during cooler weather.

Similar Mocktails

Explore these similar non-alcoholic options:

Spiced Apple Cider: Features apple juice with cinnamon and cloves.
Hot Cranberry Punch: Combines cranberry juice with citrus and spices.
Ginger Tea: Offers a warm, spicy alternative using fresh ginger.

These choices provide diverse flavors suitable for various tastes.

History

Mulled wine dates back to ancient times when spices were used to preserve and enhance wine. Roman and Medieval traditions popularized spiced mixes. The non-alcoholic version emerged as a family-friendly option, keeping the essence of traditional recipes while catering to diverse preferences.