Easy Warm Wine Cocktails to Keep You Cozy

The air is getting crisp over the rolling hills of our Maryland vineyard, and the holidays are just around the corner! There’s no better way to settle in for a chilly evening than with a warm, comforting drink in hand.

While we love a classic glass of our Cabernet Franc, sometimes the cold weather calls for something a little… cozier. We’ve been busy in the tasting room, crafting the perfect, simple-to-make warm wine cocktails to help you celebrate the season.

Here are a few of our favorites, using our Linganore wines:

1. Warmed Apple Cider Wine Cocktail

Nothing says autumn in Maryland like the taste of fresh, local apple cider. We’re taking that iconic flavor and elevating it by pairing it with our very own Spiced Apple Wine. It’s already bursting with notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, which melt perfectly into the tartness of the cider.

What You’ll Need:
– 1 part Linganore Spiced Apple Wine
-2 parts Local Apple Cider
Optional: A cinnamon stick or apple slice for garnish.

How to Make It: In a small pot or slow cooker, gently combine the Spiced Apple Wine and the apple cider. Warm the mixture over low heat until it’s steaming (be careful not to let it boil!). Pour into your favorite mug, garnish if you’re feeling festive, and enjoy the taste of a Maryland orchard in autumn.

2. Spiked Hot Chocolate

Our Indulgence is a semi-sweet wine infused with natural chocolate. It’s perfect when paired with desserts or as part of this delicious Spiked Hot Chocolate.

What You’ll Need:
-½ cup of Semi-sweet chocolate chips
-½ cup Linganore Indulgence wineOptional: Whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.

How to Make It:  Turn heat to low in a crock pot and add chocolate chips. Stir until completely melted, about two minutes. Turn off the heat and add Linganore Indulgence Wine. Then, add your favorite toppings if you like!

3. Mulled Wine

Of course, it wouldn’t be the holiday season without mulled wine! This tradition, which dates back centuries, is the perfect way to fill your home with the scent of the holidays and welcome guests.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 bottle of Steeplechase (or another of our reds, like Retriever Red)

• 1/4 cup of maple syrup or local honey (adjust to your taste)

• 1 orange, sliced (plus more for garnish)

• 4-5 whole cloves

• 2-3 cinnamon sticks

• 1-2 star anise

How to Make It: Combine all ingredients in a large pot or slow cooker. Gently warm the mixture over low heat, allowing the flavors to infuse for at least 20-30 minutes. Do not let it boil! Stir occasionally. Strain out the spices and orange, and ladle the warm wine into mugs. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick.

The Perfect Mug for Your Cocktail

These comforting drinks deserve to be served in the perfect vessel. And what could be better for a warm cocktail than our Linganore Branded Campfire Mugs?

From our family to yours, we hope these simple recipes bring a little extra warmth to your home this season.