Germany Gluhwein und Lebkuchen

Traditional Glühwein – Germany’s Winter Warmer

Take a moment and think of Germany’s authentic Christmas Markets! The sweet, spicy and tempting scent of cinnamon may tickle your nose, activate your taste buds and original German Glühwein (German mulled wine) may be the first thing that comes to your mind. Locals and travellers alike praising the beloved winter warmer they enjoy during their Christmas Market visits in Germany. Many mulled wine recipes exist, and almost every region has its own version: red or white, non-alcoholic or with a shot, with anise and honey or winter spices. A firm favourite is the traditional German Glühwein prepared from red wine and refined with traditional spices. For everyone who wants to prepare a German Glühwein, here we share a classic German mulled wine recipe.

Ingredients

1 bottle of red wine

1 orange

1 vanilla pod

1 star anise

2 cinnamon sticks

3 cloves

METHOD

  1. Carefully heat the red wine in a saucepan with the lid closed. Do not boil!
  2. Wash the orange and cut into thin slices. Scrape out the vanilla pod.
  3. Add orange slices, vanilla and all other ingredients to the pot and stir gently. Heat for about another 5 minutes.
  4. Turn off the stove and allow to draw for 15-30 minutes. Pour through a sieve and fill into glasses or cups. Decorate nicely with an orange slice on the rim of the glass and a cinnamon stick if desired.

USEFUL TIPPS

  • Use quality red wines of Germany, preferred dry and with little acid.
  • If you want German mulled wine with a kick, add a shot of rum.
  • Pair the German Glühwein with traditional and home-made Lebkuchen (German Ginger Bread).

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Planning a German Christmas Market Journey from Australia?

Dreaming of experiencing the magic of Germany’s Christmas markets and warming up with an authentic German Glühwein? Let us help you turn your ideas into a private, tailor-made journey designed around you.

We warmly invite you to discover Germany at its most festive, going beyond the usual highlights through beautifully decorated historic towns, twinkling Christmas markets, traditional crafts, seasonal treats and the unmistakable aroma of freshly prepared Glühwein. From sipping a steaming mug of traditional German Glühwein among wooden market stalls to discovering regional Christmas traditions, local specialities and charming winter landscapes, we help you experience the festive season in a truly authentic way. With our personal, locally rooted approach, we design your private Christmas market journey with care and first-hand knowledge. Every route, every stop and every experience is chosen around you, so your journey feels natural, unhurried and genuinely personal, rather than simply following a map.

Take the first step today: schedule a personal call with us, request your tailored German Christmas market itinerary, or simply reach out with your questions. Let us shape your very own Christmas journey through Germany, from traditional Christmas markets and steaming mugs of authentic Glühwein to festive lights, handmade crafts, Lebkuchen and unforgettable winter experiences.

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FOLLOW US

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© 2026 TStravelselection