What to serve with mulled wine

Mulled wine is a delightful and warming drink made with red wine, spices, and various flavorings. It is a popular drink during the winter months, especially around the holiday season. The comforting and aromatic qualities of wine make it perfect for cozy nights by the fire or festive gatherings with friends and family. If you are planning to serve mulled wine at your next gathering, here are some tasty accompaniments that will complement its flavors and elevate the overall experience.

1. Cheese Platter:
A well-curated cheese platter is an excellent choice to serve alongside mulled wine. The rich and fruity flavors of the wine pair beautifully with a range of cheeses. Consider including a variety of cheeses such as brie, camembert, gouda, and blue cheese. Add some crunchy crackers, fruit preserves, and nuts to complete the platter.

2. Charcuterie Board:
Similar to the cheese platter, a charcuterie board offers a selection of cured meats and savory items that go wonderfully with mulled wine. Thinly sliced prosciutto, salami, and chorizo are popular choices. Add some olives, pickles, and mustard for a tangy element. The combination of the warm wine and savory bites creates a harmonious taste experience.

3. Roasted Nuts:
Roasted nuts are a classic snack that pairs excellently with mulled wine. The toasty flavors and crunchy textures of almonds, cashews, and walnuts not only enhance the wine’s characteristics but also add a delightful contrast. Consider using a mix of salted and spiced nuts to provide a range of flavor profiles.

4. Chocolate Truffles:
For those who have a sweet tooth, serving chocolate truffles alongside mulled wine is an excellent choice. The rich and decadent flavors of quality chocolates complement the warm and aromatic mulled wine. Opt for dark chocolate truffles with flavors like hazelnut, raspberry, or orange, as they offer a refined pairing experience.

5. Gingerbread Cookies:
Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of mulled wine. The warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in the cookies complement the aromatic spices in the wine. You can also consider serving other types of festive cookies like shortbread, biscotti, or spiced sugar cookies.

6. Fruit Platter:
A colorful fruit platter is a refreshing option to serve alongside mulled wine. Sliced apples, oranges, pears, and grapes complement the fruity notes in the wine while providing a fresh and juicy contrast. The natural sweetness of the fruits enhances the overall enjoyment of the drink.

7. Apple Cider Donuts:
Apple cider donuts are a delectable treat that pairs exceptionally well with mulled wine. The moist and spiced donuts offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The warm and comforting notes of both the wine and the donuts create a cozy and festive experience.

In conclusion, serving complementary accompaniments with mulled wine will enhance the overall experience of enjoying this winter beverage. Whether it’s a cheese platter, charcuterie board, roasted nuts, chocolate truffles, gingerbread cookies, fruit platter, or apple cider donuts, there are plenty of options to suit different taste preferences. These delectable pairings will ensure that your guests have a memorable and delightful time savoring mulled wine during the holiday season.