Mulled Finger Lakes Wine Recipes You Have to Try!

If there’s one thing we know for certain, it’s that the FLX is one of the best places to visit if you love wine. While the area is best known for producing incredible white varieties like Rieslings, Chardonnay, and Gewurztraminer, you’ll also be delighted to know that you can find some gorgeous Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc selections too! These reds are perfect for mulling and it’s one of our favorite ways to enjoy them when the weather gets cold.

Mulled wine can be perfect for enjoying as a special treat on a cozy night in or for serving up at your next fete. Here are a few of our favorite recipes to try, either when you stay with us in one of our Seneca Lake rentals or when you return home and are wishing for a little escape! 

 

finger lakes mulled wine

Classic Mulled Wine

- 1 bottle (750 ml) Finger Lakes deep red wine (e.g., Cabernet Franc or Merlot)

- 1 cup apple cider

- 1/2 cup sugar (add a little more or less depending on taste!)

- 1 orange, sliced

- 2-3 cinnamon sticks

- 5-6 whole cloves

- 1 star anise (optional)

- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions: In a large pot over low heat, combine the red wine, apple cider, and sugar. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and nutmeg. Heat the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally and ensuring it does not boil. Strain the spices using a strainer or cheesecloth and serve warm. 

 

mulled wine in seneca lake

Citrus Spiced Mulled Wine

- 1 bottle (750 ml) Finger Lakes mild red wine (e.g., Pinot Noir)

- 1/2 cup maple syrup (We love it with the maple syrup we make on our farm) 

- 1 cup water

- 1 lemon, sliced

- 1 lime, sliced

- 3 cinnamon sticks

- 5 whole cloves

- 3 cardamom pods (slightly crushed)

Instructions: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the water and honey (or maple syrup) over medium heat until dissolved. Add the red wine, lemon slices, lime slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom pods. Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes without boiling, taking care to stir occasionally. Strain through a strainer or cheesecloth. Serve warm. 

 

warm mulled wine in a mug

Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

- 1 bottle (750 ml) Finger Lakes deep red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Meritage)

- 1 cup cranberry juice

- 1/2 cup brown sugar

- 1 apple, diced

- 2 oranges, zested and juiced

- 3 cinnamon sticks

- 4 whole cloves

Instructions: In a slow cooker set to low, combine all of your ingredients: red wine, cranberry juice, brown sugar, diced apple, orange zest and juice, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.Stir to mix well and cover. Heat on low for about 2 hours or until warmed through. Serve warm in mugs.

A few last minute tips for choosing the perfect Finger Lakes wine for mulling: 

  • Go with a fruity, deep red. Wines like Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot have enough body and fruitiness that they complement the addition of spices well. If you’re not sure what to choose, simply ask the winery for their recommendations! 

  • Avoid something too pricey. Because mulling will alter the flavor profile of the wine you choose, it’s best to select an affordable bottle. Save that special bottle to enjoy on its own! 

  • Experiment with your additions! While spices and fruit (both fresh and dried) are traditional in mulled wine, you can also think about spicing things up with a bit of ginger wine, ruby port, brandy, sloe gin or other spirits.