Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

Sparkling Mulled Wine Cocktail

Sparkling Mulled Wine Cocktail Recipe
This Sparkling Mulled Wine Cocktail blends classic mulled wine spices, red wine, and a crisp splash of sparkling wine for a festive, cozy-yet-refreshing holiday drink.
John
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Serving Size 1 cocktail

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Heatproof pitcher or bowl
  • Ladle
  • Champagne flutes or tall glasses
  • Small knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle dry red wine Cabernet Sauvignon works well
  • 1 orange sliced
  • 1 lemon sliced
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise
  • 0.25 tsp nutmeg
  • 0.25 cup sugar adjust to taste
  • 0.5 cup cranberries fresh or frozen
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 1 bottle sparkling wine or champagne chilled
  • sparkling water optional, for lighter version

Instructions

  • Pour red wine into a saucepan over low heat. Add orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, sugar, and cranberries.
  • Stir gently until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, do not boil.
  • Strain mixture into a heatproof pitcher to remove spices and fruit. Let cool to room temperature.
  • Add lemon juice and chill in the fridge until cold.
  • To serve, pour half a glass of chilled mulled wine syrup, top with sparkling wine or champagne.
  • Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version if desired.

Notes

Simmer slowly to infuse spices without boiling off alcohol. Prepare mulled wine base in advance and chill before serving for best fizz. Adjust sweetness to taste with more sugar or honey if needed.