The German name for mulled wine traditionally served at Christmas markets is Glühwein.
The word combines Glüh, meaning “glow” or “glowing heat,” with Wein, meaning “wine.” Glühwein is usually made by warming red wine with spices such as cinnamon and cloves; recipes may also include citrus, sugar, or other flavorings. It is served hot during the Advent season, especially at outdoor Christmas markets across Germany and neighboring parts of Central Europe.
Glühwein belongs to a broad family of heated, spiced alcoholic drinks. Sweden and other Nordic countries have glögg, while wassail is a separate English holiday punch tradition. Feuerzangenbowle is a related German drink in which rum-soaked sugar is set above the wine and allowed to caramelize into it.
The drink has older precedents in European spiced wines, including ancient Roman preparations. Modern market Glühwein is most strongly associated with German Christmas culture and winter social gatherings.