As soon as the first chill of winter arrives, so does my craving for cozy comforts and festive flavors. I remember the delight of discovering the perfect holiday cocktail that brings friends and family together, and this Mulled Wine Margarita is just the ticket! Imagine curling up with a warm, spiced drink that dances between the comforting aromas of mulled red wine and the refreshing bite of a classic margarita. It’s a delightful fusion that’s not only sure to entice your taste buds but also elevate any holiday gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a festive Christmas party or enjoying a quiet evening, this drink dazzles with its festive colors and complex flavors. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, and you can even prepare the mulled wine ahead of time, ensuring you spend more time celebrating and less time in the kitchen. So grab your shaker, and let’s toast to a holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable sips!
Why is Mulled Wine Margarita so special?
Festive Fusion: This cocktail uniquely blends two beloved beverages, creating a stunning drink that captures the essence of the holiday season.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: Each sip offers a balance of warm spices and zesty citrus that dances on your palate.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mulled wine in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit among friends and family, sparking joy and cheer around the table.
For more festive ideas, don’t forget to check out our guide on holiday cocktails!
Mulled Wine Margarita Ingredients
For the Mulled Wine
- Red Wine – The base of the mulled wine; a fruity Rioja works best, or feel free to choose your favorite red wine.
- Apple Cider – This adds sweetness and enhances the festive flavor; no substitute is needed.
- Orange Juice – Provides acidity and brightness; freshly squeezed works wonders if you want a fresh twist.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the mixture; you can swap it out for white sugar or maple syrup if you prefer.
- Whole Cloves, Allspice Berries, Cinnamon Sticks, Black Peppercorns – These spices create warmth and complexity; if you’re short on time, opt for a pre-made mulling spice mix.
For the Margarita
- Tequila – Essential for that margarita kick; substituting with mezcal adds a smokier flavor profile.
- Orange Liqueur (e.g., Cointreau) – Adds a sweet citrus element; you can use Triple Sec or Grand Marnier instead.
- Simple Syrup – This sweetens the margarita; adjust the amount to taste or use agave syrup for a healthier option.
- Orange Slices & Flake Sea Salt – Garnish that enhances flavor and adds a colorful touch; feel free to customize based on your preferences!
This Mulled Wine Margarita is not just a drink; it’s an invitation to celebrate and create lasting memories!
How to Make Mulled Wine Margarita
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Prepare Mulled Wine: In a medium-large pan, combine red wine, apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, and spices. Heat gently over medium, stirring to dissolve sugar, then simmer covered for 20 minutes. Allow to cool.
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Prepare Glass: Rim a glass with an orange slice and dip in flake sea salt. Fill the glass with ice, setting the stage for your festive drink.
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Mix Margarita: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, cooled mulled wine, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well combined and chilled.
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Assemble Drink: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass, garnish with fresh orange slices, and serve immediately for the perfect festive touch.
Optional: Add a cinnamon stick as a charming stirrer for extra flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mulled Wine Margarita
Fridge: Store leftover mulled wine (without the tequila) in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before mixing again for cocktails.
Freezer: You can freeze mulled wine in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Use the cubes in future drinks or smoothies to add a festive touch.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the mulled wine mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave, then mix it with fresh tequila for a delightful Mulled Wine Margarita.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mulled wine ahead of time, so you can savor your time with loved ones while festivities flow!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Mulled Wine Margarita in advance not only saves you valuable time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully! You can make the mulled wine up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the initial steps of combining the red wine, apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, and spices in a pan. Once simmered for 20 minutes, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the mulled wine before mixing it with the margarita ingredients. With these simple preparations, your cocktail will be just as delightful and ready to impress your guests, making holiday hosting a breeze!
Expert Tips for Mulled Wine Margarita
- Wine Selection: Choose a red wine you enjoy drinking to enhance the overall flavor. A fruity Rioja is preferred, but any favorite will do.
- Chill the Ingredients: Ensure your margarita ingredients are well chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm mulled wine.
- Sweetness Balance: Adjust the amount of simple syrup or brown sugar based on personal preference; taste as you go to find the perfect sweetness.
- Make in Advance: Prepare the mulled wine a day ahead to deepen its flavors. Just reheat it gently before mixing your margarita.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Vary your garnishes by adding different citrus slices or even a sprig of rosemary for extra aroma.
What to Serve with Mulled Wine Margarita?
The warmth of holiday flavors deserves delightful pairings to elevate your gathering experience.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of rich cheeses like brie and aged cheddar enhances the cocktail’s spiced profile. Pair with fig jam for added sweetness.
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Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, caramelized nuts bring a lovely crunch and depth. Their smoky, salty notes complement the sweet and spicy undertones of the drink perfectly.
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Cranberry Meatballs: These savory, sweet bites create a delightful contrast with the cocktail’s warmth. The tart cranberry sauce pulls everything together wonderfully.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms filled with cream cheese and herbs provide a warm, comforting bite that harmonizes beautifully with the cocktail’s festive flavors.
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Mini Tacos: Serve mini tortillas filled with roasted veggies and perhaps a touch of spicy salsa. The brightness of fresh ingredients complements the rich mulled wine notes.
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Chocolate-Dipped Oranges: A decadent dessert option, the citrus and chocolate reflect the cocktail’s ingredients, creating a seamless taste journey.
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Mulled Wine Sangria: A lighter cocktail option to keep the vibe festive, this fruity drink mirrors the flavors of the mulled wine and offers a refreshing twist.
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Ginger Snaps: These spicy cookies provide a perfect finishing touch with their crisp texture and zesty flavors, enriching the overall holiday experience.
Mulled Wine Margarita Variations
Customize this festive drink to reflect your unique taste and creativity. Your choice of flavors can take this cocktail to delightful new heights!
- Pear Cider: Swap apple cider for pear cider for a subtly sweet twist that adds an intriguing flavor profile.
- Non-Alcoholic Delight: Replace red wine and tequila with non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice for a festive mocktail that everyone can enjoy.
- Citrus Medley: Experiment with garnishes by using lime, grapefruit, or lemon slices for a zesty kick that brightens the drink.
- Spiced Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of ginger beer for an extra layer of warmth and spice that dances on your palate.
- Smoky Touch: For a deeper flavor, substitute tequila with mezcal. The smokiness intertwines beautifully with the spiced mulled wine.
- Herbal Notes: Enhance the herbal profile by adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme as a garnish, infusing the drink with aromatic complexity.
- Fruity Liqueur Boost: Incorporate a splash of cranberry or cherry liqueur to amplify the fruity aspect, making it even more celebratory.
- Chili Heat: For those who enjoy a bite, add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy surprise that contrasts beautifully with the sweet flavors.
Mulled Wine Margarita Recipe FAQs
What type of red wine should I use for the Mulled Wine Margarita?
Absolutely! A fruity Rioja is recommended for its sweetness and balance, but feel free to use any red wine that you enjoy drinking. A Merlot or Pinot Noir can also work nicely, as they will add unique flavors to the mulled wine.
How can I store leftover Mulled Wine Margarita?
Very! If you have leftovers of the mulled wine (without the tequila), simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to reheat gently before mixing with fresh tequila for the next round of cocktails.
Can I freeze the mulled wine for future use?
Yes! You can freeze the mulled wine in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop a few cubes into your glass, add tequila, and let them melt for a festive touch in your drink.
What if my mulled wine tastes too sweet?
If your mulled wine comes out a bit too sweet for your taste, don’t fret! You can balance the sweetness by adding a splash of fresh citrus juice, like lime or lemon, and stirring it in. Alternatively, try adding a little unsweetened cranberry juice to offset the sweetness.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Mulled Wine Margarita?
Absolutely! For a delightful non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the red wine with non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice. Keep the apple cider, orange juice, and spices the same for that festive flavor. This way, everyone can join in the celebration!
How long does it take to prepare the mulled wine?
Making the mulled wine is quick! It takes about 20 minutes to simmer and infuse all those wonderful spices. Plus, since you can prepare it in advance, it’s even easier to serve when you’re ready to mix up your Mulled Wine Margarita.
Cozy Up with a Festive Mulled Wine Margarita Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-large pan, combine red wine, apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, and spices. Heat gently over medium, stirring to dissolve sugar, then simmer covered for 20 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Rim a glass with an orange slice and dip in flake sea salt. Fill the glass with ice.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, cooled mulled wine, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well combined and chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass, garnish with fresh orange slices, and serve immediately.
- Optional: Add a cinnamon stick as a charming stirrer for extra flair.