When most people think of mulled wine, they imagine rich, ruby-red Glühwein warming their hands at a snowy Christmas market. But here’s a delicious secret: white mulled wine exists—and it’s absolutely stunning.

Lighter, brighter, and beautifully aromatic, white mulled wine (or Weißer Glühwein) offers an elegant alternative to its red counterpart. With notes of citrus, ginger, and warm spices, it’s perfect for those who want all the cozy comfort of mulled wine with a more delicate, refreshing profile.

The Story Behind White Mulled Wine

While red mulled wine dominates Christmas markets across Germany and Austria, white mulled wine has quietly been a favorite in Alpine regions for generations. Made with off-dry white wines like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, it celebrates the aromatic wines these regions are famous for.

The tradition reflects the same principle as red Glühwein: take what grows locally, add warming spices, and create something that brings people together during the coldest, darkest days of winter.

White mulled wine is less about following rules and more about exploring what you enjoy. Prefer brightness over richness? Citrus over dark fruit? This is your mulled wine.

Why You’ll Love It

White mulled wine is unexpected—and that’s exactly what makes it memorable. It’s lighter on the palate but just as warming. The fresh ginger adds a gentle heat, while lemon and cardamom create an aromatic experience that feels both festive and refined.

It’s perfect for:

• Afternoon gatherings when you want something cozy but not too heavy
• Guests who prefer white wine over red
• Anyone looking to try something new and delightfully surprising

Serve it in clear mugs or heatproof glasses so everyone can admire its beautiful golden hue. Pair it with mild cheeses, gingerbread, or citrus-based desserts for a pairing that feels effortlessly elegant.

Ready to Try Something New?

This winter, expand your mulled wine repertoire. Whether you’re a red wine loyalist curious about branching out, or a white wine lover who didn’t know this tradition existed, white mulled wine is waiting to surprise you.

Grab the recipe below, gather your spices, and discover why this Alpine secret deserves a place in your winter ritual. Your kitchen—and your guests—will thank you.

Prost to trying something beautifully unexpected! 🤍✨

How to Make Mulled Wine at Home

Ready to bring this tradition into your home? Making mulled wine is simple, customizable, and fills your space with festive aromas. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of white wine: A white variety from Germany or Austria. I enjoy an off-dry Riesling, but you could use a Dry Riesling, Gewurtztraminer, Muller-Thurgau, etc.
• Spices: Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice.
• Citrus: Sliced oranges and lemons, and a little juice
• Sweetener: Honey, sugar, or maple syrup to taste.

Directions:

1. Pour the wine into a pot and add spices, citrus slices, and sweetener.
2. Heat gently—never boil—to allow the flavors to mingle. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Strain, pour, and garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation

Fun Facts About Mulled Wine

• Germany: Known as Glühwein, meaning “glow wine” for the warmth it brings.
• Sweden: Glögg often includes raisins and almonds for a unique twist.
• France: Vin Chaud literally translates to “hot wine.”

Wherever you are, mulled wine is a universal symbol of togetherness and joy.

Want more history? Check out my recipe for Cozy Up with Mulled Wine: A Holiday Classic You’ll Love  where I show you how to make traditional red mulled wine.

Share Your Mulled Wine Creations

What’s your favorite twist on mulled wine? Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a unique spin, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.

Here’s to a warm and wonderful holiday season. Sip slow, savor often, and cheers to mulled wine!

This recipe was inspired by a reader who wrote to me last year about a tradition I’d never tried before: white mulled wine. She told me it’s something she enjoys whenever she can at the St. Paul Christmas markets in Minnesota, where it’s warming, fragrant, and just a little unexpected compared to the classic red version. Her note stuck with me, and this scaled-down recipe is my take on that festive cup—bright, spiced, and perfect for a cold winter evening.