Chat with Vinny
Mulled wine and Christmas go hand in hand. But are you looking for an alcohol-free alternative this festive season? Good news. It’s easier than you think. Read on to find out more …
One of the best things about the festive season is the smell of mulled wine wafting through your home as your tree lights twinkle and you’re about to sit down to a classic Christmas film.
Even if you’re looking to skip the alcohol, you can still enjoy the warmth and seasonal spices of this classic drink.
And it’s easier than you think … just swap your normal red wine for an alcohol-free red.
Which alcohol-free red to use?
We recommend using Wednesday’s Domaine Vignette. It’s a blend of two wines – an oaked Petit Verdot and fruit-filled Tempranillo from the historic La Mancha region of Central Spain.
The wine is gently de-alcoholised using the latest technology, before being blended with a handful of natural ingredients that lift body, flavour, aroma and length in the absence of alcohol.
The result? Dark plum and damson aromas, with black fruits and a gentle kiss of spice … just perfect as the base for your alcohol-free mulled wine.
What are the benefits of alcohol-free mulled wine?
The alcohol-free version of mulled wine is as versatile as it is delicious. Here’s why it’s worth a try this festive season:
It’s healthier
Contains less sugar and calories than traditional mulled wine
You don’t have to worry about a hangover
And because there’s no alcohol, you’ll enjoy a better night’s sleep
Great for all occasions
Perfect for the entire family at gatherings
When you want to enjoy a quiet, guild-free midweek drink at home
Ideal for parties – inclusive drinking option, great for those driving
What you’ll need:
750ml bottle Wednesday’s Domaine Vignette
2 large cinnamon sticks
1 sliced fresh orange
2 star anises
4 cloves
4 tbsp caster sugar
Fresh cranberries (optional – for garnish)
How to make it:
Pour your bottle of Wednesday’s Domaine Vignette into a large saucepan.
Add the cinnamon, caster sugar, star anise, cloves and orange slices and gently stir.
Heat gently over low to medium heat for 10-15 minutes – ensuring it doesn’t boil.
Partially cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
Leave to gently simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat and let it cool.
Pour into mugs or heat-resistant glasses.
Garnish with cranberries or a cinnamon stick.
Mistakes to avoid when mulling wine
To ensure you enjoy your alcohol-free mulled wine at its best, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes:
Overheating the wine – it’s important you don’t let the wine boil as this diminishes its flavours. That’s why low and slow is best when mulling.
Using too many spices – you don’t want too many overpowering flavours in your mulled wine. As with anything, balance is key.
Alcohol-free mulled wine food pairings
Alcohol-free mulled wine is known for its deliciously warming spices and rich fruitiness. And that makes it the perfect partner for all Christmas-related foods. I’m talking mince pies, roasted chestnuts and gingerbread cookies.
Or for something slightly more savoury, you could pair your alcohol-free mulled wine with a charcuterie board that has soft cheeses and dried fruits.
About the author
Brogan Wilson
Qualified to WSET Level 2 Wine, Brogan is a relatively new member of the team, having joined in September 2023. She previously worked as the sole copywriter at a creative marketing agency, and before that, as a primary school teacher. At Laithwaites HQ, you’ll find her growing her knowledge, asking lots of questions, and crafting both digital and print copy. An ardent red wine drinker, Brogan is also fond of Crémant.
