Glühwein does need to be heated in order to bring out its full flavor and aroma. The process of heating the Glühwein allows the spices in the mix to infuse the wine and create a warm, comforting beverage that is perfect for cold winter nights.
When I first tried Glühwein, I was surprised to learn that it needed to be heated. I had always assumed that it was simply a type of wine that you could drink straight from the bottle. However, I quickly discovered that heating the Glühwein is an essential step in the preparation process.
To make Glühwein, you start by adding the Glühwein mix to a pot on the stove. The mix typically contains a combination of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel, as well as sweeteners like sugar or honey. You then pour in a bottle of red wine and gently heat the mixture over low to medium heat.
It’s important to note that you should never let the Glühwein come to a boil, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate and result in a less flavorful drink. Instead, you want to heat the Glühwein just until it is warm and the spices have had a chance to infuse the wine.
As the Glühwein heats up, you’ll start to notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen. The scent of cinnamon and cloves wafting through the air is a sure sign that your Glühwein is almost ready to be enjoyed.
Once the Glühwein is warm, you can remove it from the heat and serve it immediately. It’s best to strain out any whole spices or citrus peels before serving to ensure a smooth, enjoyable drink.
I have found that serving Glühwein hot is the most traditional and enjoyable way to enjoy it. The warmth of the drink is comforting and cozy, especially on chilly winter evenings. Plus, the spices in the Glühwein mix really come alive when heated, creating a delicious and aromatic experience.
So, while Glühwein doesn’t necessarily have to be heated, I highly recommend doing so to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas that this festive drink has to offer.