As we settle into the winter months, holiday drinks are finding their way back on the menu, adding warmth and cheer to the season. One of the most sought-after beverages is mulled wine, a warm, spiced wine that’s especially popular this time of the year.
With its rich aroma and comforting heat, it’s no wonder mulled wine has become a holiday staple. The drink traces its origins back to 2nd-century Rome, where spices were added to wine both to preserve it and to warm the body during colder days. Over centuries, it evolved into a beloved winter tradition across many cultures. Below is a list of shops in Washtenaw County that can help you find or make your own perfect batch of mulled wine.
Everyday Wines
Kerrytown’s Everyday Wines sometimes has pre-made mulled wines in stock, but they’re quite selective about selling spiced wine outright. For those feeling crafty, Everyday Wines recommends stopping by Spice Merchants, located on the second floor of the Kerrytown shops, to pick up their handy mulled wine kits. These kits include allspice, cinnamon, star anise, orange zest, and clove, all for $6.99 — a perfect blend to get started.
When selecting a wine to complement your spices, Everyday Wines suggests opting for a red wine made without oak. It should be drinkable on its own but doesn’t need to break the bank. A bottle priced at $10 or less should do the trick nicely.
410 N 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Total Wine
If you’re heading to the Oak Valley shopping center for Black Friday deals, Total Wine is a great spot to grab some spiced wine while tackling your holiday shopping list. The store boasts an impressive selection of 8,000 wines, 2,500 beers, and 3,000 spirits. With such a variety, you’re almost guaranteed to find spiced wine—or other festive beverages—to elevate your holiday dinners and parties. Prices at Total Wine vary.
3140 Lohr Rd, Ann Arbor
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A and L Wine Castle
As the season settles in, A and L Wine Castle will offer an excellent selection of mulled wines sourced from Michigan and California. Can’t find what you’re looking for? This family-owned and operated store is more than happy to special order anything you need to make your holiday party memorable.
2424 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor
Arbor Farms Market
A local grocery store that’s been a beloved Ann Arbor staple since 1979, Arbor Farms Market specializes in local and organic foods, offering customers the freshest produce and goods. Importantly, none of the products they sell contain artificial colors or preservatives, ensuring health-conscious and high-quality options. To cater to its diverse clientele, Arbor Farms often stocks unique items, including St. Christopher Gluhwein, a warm and spiced German mulled wine that’s especially popular during the holidays. The St. Christopher Gluhwein typically retails at: $10.99
2103 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor
No matter which spot you choose, these local stores have everything you need to make your holiday season warmer, cozier, and a little more festive.
