Move over mulled wine: mulled beer is stealing the spotlight this festive season
December is upon us, meaning mulled wine season has officially begun. Synonymous with Christmas markets and festive feasts, the warm, fruity, and spiced drink is a holiday staple.But could another hot beverage steal the spotlight this year? According to Beavertown Brewery, Christmas 2025 is all about mulled beer.According to the experts, searches for mulled beer have surged by 126 per cent over the past month, suggesting Britons are ready to explore beyond traditional festive tipples. While mulled wine remains a Christmas staple, this warming beer alternative is capturing curious drinkers' attention.Mulled wine is nothing new; it's been around for a long time, with origins dating back to the 16th century. Modern refrigeration hadn't been invented, so people drank their beer warm, adding spices to prevent common spoilage.It became less common with advanced technologies in brewing and refrigeration, but has experienced a modern resurgence, particularly over the Christmas period.Head of innovation at Beavertown, Sam Millard, described mulled beer as "a fun, alternative festive drink that lives slightly in the shadow of the Christmas market favourite, mulled wine".Here, he shared how Britons can make this year's Christmas favourite at home.Move over mulled wine: mulled beer is stealing the spotlight this festive season | GETTYChoose your beerThe "secret" to excellent mulled beer lies in selecting the right base, according to Mr Millard. "The best results will come from a rich, malty profile or a sweet brown ale," he revealed.Stouts and porters make ideal choices, offering rich, malty characteristics that complement festive spices beautifully. The key is finding beers with natural sweetness and minimal bitterness.Top tip: "The basic rule is to taste it before you mull it, and if there is any hint of bitterness, opt for something else." You don't want your other ingredients to be overpowered.Mulled wine is a seasonal staple, synonymous with Christmas markets | GETTYAdd your spices and seasoningsFestive aromatics transform the beer into a proper winter cocktail. Cinnamon sticks, star anise, and vanilla pods work particularly well with darker beers like stouts and porters, while ginger brings a "spicy kick" to lighter brown ales.Experiment with garnishesCitrus elements add brightness to the mix. Orange or lemon peels and dried fruits should be added alongside the spices before heating begins.SimmerThe heating process requires careful attention, the expert warned, urging winemakers: "Be careful to avoid boiling the beer mixture – you want the ingredients to infuse together at a low heat, as boiling can lead to harsh, bitter flavours."Ten minutes is the "sweet spot" for simmering, preserving the beer's character while allowing spices to infuse properly. Soft bubbles should just break the surface, with occasional stirring to blend everything.Season to tasteFinal touches can elevate the drink further once your mulled wine is removed from the heat.Honey or brown sugar helps balance any remaining bitterness, while a splash of brandy, rum or whiskey adds indulgent depth to this festive creation.
