As Christmas approaches, the festive spirit comes alive with traditions like decorating the Christmas tree, indulging in plum cakes, celebrating with loved ones, singing carols, and enjoying a glass of mulled wine. This spiced beverage, synonymous with Christmas, involves mixing red wine with spices, berries, and raisins, creating a sugary-spicy concoction that has been part of Christmas celebrations since the 2nd century A.D.
Mulled wine’s historical roots date back to medieval times when it was known as ‘ypocras’ or ‘hipocris,’ named after the physician Hippocrates. With wine being a safer option than water during that era, heated drinks with medicinal spices likely helped people endure cold winters. The first written documentation of mulled wines appeared around the 14th century A.D. The Romans and Greeks are credited with creating mulled wine in the 2nd century, using it to ward off the cold. This tradition spread quickly, becoming a festive staple especially during Christmas.
Throughout the middle ages, Europeans added their unique twists, incorporating herbs and flowers for extra sweetness. Different countries developed their variations, such as Sweden’s Glogg, a Nordic term for mulled wine. Glogg includes red wine, sugar, bitter orange, and herbs.
Here’s a simple recipe for mulled wine:
Ingredients:
– 2 bottles of red wine
– 2 shots of port wine
– 2 oranges, sliced and stuffed with cloves
– 1 tsp nutmeg powder
– 1 tsp cinnamon powder
– 3-4 tbsp brown sugar
Method:
1. Combine all ingredients in a large pan.
2. Simmer on low flame for 15 minutes to let the spices infuse without boiling the liquid.
3. Strain the mulled wine and pour into glasses.
Enjoy the warmth and spiciness of mulled wine, a timeless Christmas tradition.
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