Hot mulled wine — called Glühwein in the German speaking world — is a staple of Christmas markets in Europe. What better way to warm up while shopping outdoors? It is typically prepared using red wine that is heated and spiced with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, cardamom, orange, sugar and at times, vanilla pods. Some versions include an extra shot of rum or another liquor, others are made with white wine, and Kinderpunsch, made for children, is non-alcoholic. The Feuerzangenbowle version features the addition of a rum-soaked sugarloaf that is set on fire and allowed to drip into the wine. The Swedish Glögg version traditionally contains a bit more alcohol along with some fruit and nuts. Any version is delicious and a great way to warm up in the cold! We’ve been making our own homemade special recipe Glühwein since the Christkindlmarkt began at the Corner of the Past in 2021. Have you tried it yet?
Another part of the Glühwein tradition is the souvenir mug it is served in. Most European Christmas markets feature a special mug for their market each year, and so do we! Ours is particularly unique, as it is designed by a different Door County artist each year. You’ll want to collect them all!
Glühwein Mug Artists, 2021-2024:
2021 – Joe Risch, creator of the iconic Christkindlmarkt Door County artwork
2022 – Pipka Ulvilden, Pipka’s of Door County
2023 – David Frykman, Frykman Studio Gallery
2024 – Anne & Alley Woelfel, Jack and Joie’s
2024 Drinks Hut:
Our Glühwein, or hot mulled wine, is our own homemade Christkindlmarkt Door County recipe! Our version includes red wine, heated with a variety of spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange peel. Be sure to try one in our 2024 collectible Glühwein mug!
Other Drinks Available at the Drinks Hut:
– Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows
– Hot Apple Cider
– White Claw
– Bottled Water
