This lighter version of the Christmas classic is set to explode in popularity this year.
Winter is here and with it comes the cosy tradition of mulled wine.
While red mulled wine has long been the star of festive parties and Christmas markets, there’s a new contender making waves in the world of warm winter drinks: white mulled wine.
This lighter, fresher take on the classic is quickly becoming the trendy choice for those looking to spice up their cold-weather beverage game.
Here’s why white mulled wine is winning over hearts (and taste buds), the best white wines for mulling, and a simple recipe to make your own.
Why is white mulled wine so popular this year?
White mulled wine is the cooler, slightly more versatile cousin of the traditional red.
Read more: Five easy Christmas cocktail recipes to try this year
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Jiachen Lu, head sommelier at CORD restaurant, explains: “While we all love the perfect harmony of sweet Christmas spices, brown sugar and orange in the traditional mulled red wine, the white version can totally make orchard fruits (apple, pears etc) and vanilla pods shine whereas the berry notes in mulled rosé wine are particularly delicious with some slices of pink grapefruit and pink peppercorns.”
Jiachen adds white mulled wine is also incredibly adaptable. Serve it hot or at room temperature, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes — from seafood and light appetisers to seasonal roasted vegetables and poultry.
It’s an ideal choice for holiday gatherings where you want a drink that can carry you through multiple courses without feeling too bold or filling.
What are the best white wines for mulling?
When selecting a wine for mulling, keep in mind that some varietals work better than others. Here are a few favourites that hold their own when infused with spices and heat.
Riesling: Its natural sweetness and floral notes make it a fantastic base for white mulled wine. It balances beautifully with spices and citrus, creating a harmonious, fragrant drink.
Buy for £9.99 from Majestic Wine.
Gewürztraminer: This aromatic wine offers spicy and tropical fruit flavours that elevate the mulling spices to a whole new level. Gewürztraminer brings out the cinnamon and cardamom while enhancing the wine’s own lychee and floral notes.
Buy for £8.99 from Majestic Wine
Read more: These beloved Christmas foods are worse for you than you’d think – here’s how to make them healthier
Sauvignon blanc: If you’re after a drier white mulled wine, sauvignon blanc is a great choice. Its high acidity and herbal tones give the drink a crisp, fresh edge, and it pairs nicely with the addition of herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Buy for £8.99 from Laithwaites Wine
Chenin blanc: Known for its balanced acidity and slight hint of honey, chenin blanc makes a beautifully smooth and slightly rich mulled wine. The subtle honey notes complement the spices without overpowering them.
Buy for £8.99 from Laithwaites Wine
Pinot grigio: For a light and zesty white mulled wine, opt for pinot grigio. Its citrus and green apple flavours blend well with lemon and ginger, creating a refreshing twist on the usual mulled wine.
Buy for £9.99 from Laithwaites Wine
Garry Clark, head sommelier at Palé Hall hotel and restaurant, says: “One piece of advice I would give is, whatever style of wine you chose to use, always start off with a decent product.
“There’s a tendency to use cheap cooking wine, but even though you’re adding spices and fruit to it and warming it up, it doesn’t mean you should skimp on the quality of the wine.”
Read more: ‘I tried everything in Marks & Spencer’s 2024 Christmas food range – these are my top picks’
White mulled wine recipe
Ready to give it a try? Here’s a simple recipe that captures the essence of white mulled wine.
This version is gently spiced, not overly sweet and perfect for sharing.
Makes: 4-6 cups
Takes: 30 minutes total
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of white wine
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 orange, sliced (plus zest of half an orange for added flavour)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 slices of fresh ginger (optional, for a bit of warmth and zing)
- 2 star anise (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Method:
- In a medium saucepan, pour the white wine and add the honey, orange and lemon slices, cloves, cinnamon stick, ginger and star anise.
- Heat the mixture over a low to medium heat. Allow it to simmer, but avoid letting it boil, as boiling can evaporate the alcohol and alter the flavour. Let the mixture warm for about 15-20 mins so the spices have time to infuse.
- After simmering, taste the mulled wine. If you’d like it sweeter, add more honey or sugar. If you’d like more spice, add additional cloves or ginger. Stir gently to combine.
- Ladle the warm white mulled wine into heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish with a rosemary or thyme sprig, or even a slice of orange for added flair.
- Serve immediately for the best experience, though white mulled wine can also be enjoyed slightly cooled if you prefer a milder warmth.
