Red wine heated gently with sugar and aromatic spices, served warm as a festive drink. Traditional flavourings include cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried ginger, orange zest and juice, and sometimes star anise or nutmeg. The wine must be warmed, never boiled, to preserve its flavour and alcohol. Mulled wine is synonymous with Christmas markets across Europe, from German Glühwein to Scandinavian glögg, each region adding its own touches such as almonds, raisins, or a splash of spirits. Served in heatproof glasses or mugs, it offers comforting warmth on cold evenings, with the spices’ fragrance as much a part of the pleasure as the taste.