Easy Crockpot Mulled Wine

This simple mulled wine recipe is easy make in the crockpot! This easy slow cooker mulled wine combines mulling spices and red wine in the slow cooker for the perfect cold weather drink! 

We’re getting cozy today, friends! Today, I’m sharing the best mulled wine recipe. Mulled wine has been around almost as long as humans have, with the Romans beginning to drink hot wine to get through the winters. And, folks enjoy mulled wine as a holiday tradition at

Christmas markets. People have been drinking mulled wine to get through the cold winter months for so long, that I think it’s one of those drinks that just feels right to drink in a cozy, warm setting or at holiday parties!

I love to make my Mulled Wine in the crockpot or slow cooker. The most important thing to remember when making spiced wine is that it shouldn’t get too hot! You do not want it to come to a simmer or boil. Once wine reaches 173 degrees Fahrenheit, the alcohol will start to vaporize. So, I avoid making it on the stove top because my burners are scorching hot, even on the lowest settings. 

This recipe makes a double batch, so it’s great for your next holiday party! I love to make big batches for my guests.

You have several options for garnishing mulled wine. I prefer to garnish with a full cinnamon stick, because I love heavy cinnamon flavor. But, rosemary sprigs and fresh orange slices are also great options! Garnish adds festive color for the holiday season.

What type of wine should I use for Mulled Wine? 

There is a wide variety of different opinions on this!

For mulled wine, I think the best wine is a dry wine. I recommend a California Merlot, Red Zinfandel, Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines have a bold flavor that will compliment the mulling spices. Choosing a delicately flavored wine may result in an imbalanced mulled wine that tastes too heavily of the mulling spices and not enough wine taste.

If you prefer sweeter wine, feel free to choose a fruity red wine. You can also taste the mulled wine once heated and add up to 1 cup of white sugar to increase the sweetness to your taste.

You may be tempted to go for the cheap stuff, but I recommend getting a decent bottle of red wine for this recipe! You do not need top shelf, but spend a few dollars more than the cheapest bottle.

Can you freeze Mulled Wine?

Short answer, yes! You can freeze mulled wine. Make sure it’s in an airtight container with as much air removed as possible. The wine will freeze. Allow to thaw naturally, on the counter or refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently once thawed.

I hope that you enjoy this crockpot mulled wine recipe! If you love this, I think you’d also enjoy my Cranberry Moscow Mules. They’re a hit every year come Christmas time!