Deceivingly potent and laced with punchy flavours, mulled wine is a trusty foodie staple when winter comes around. Whether at a festive market, homemade, nestled within the confines of a cosy pub, or elegantly presented in a bar, embrace the holiday season and give in to temptation. For moments when that familiar hankering for mulling spices sets in, Culture Trip has done the groundwork and discovered the best spots in Edinburgh to find this delightfully delicious tipple.
Badger & Co.
Restaurant, Bar, British, Contemporary, $$$
Mulled Wine | Courtesy Of Badger & Co.
The cream of the mulled wine crop, Badger & Co. rightfully commandeers the crown when it comes to feeling all festivey this season. Situated in what was once the home of Wind In The Willows writer Kenneth Grahame, this exceptionally hip eatery and bar plays to all your culinary desires. In other words, look no further for the greatest mulled wine. For moments devoid of any inhibitions, you can also opt for the boozy hot chocolate — a sinfully delicious hot chocolate infused with a concoction of chocolate liqueurs and other welcomed alcohol related delights. Oh, and wait for it — there are two to choose from, including one with Grand Marnier and another with Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur.
A trusty go-to spot when on the hunt for the best mulled wine in town, the European Christmas Market never fails to disappoint. After meandering through the bespoke stores stocking up on every nutcracker in sight, it seems only fitting to wash all that cheer down with copious swirls of warming red wine. The market runs from the 19th November until 7th of January, so there is plenty of time to add a pit stop here to all your mandatory daily wanderings.
For a true taste of Christmas and the sobering sound of Scotland, embark on an evening of folk music and mulled wine at Sandy Bell’s. Known and celebrated worldwide as the best folk music haven in Edinburgh, visiting this cosy pub creates the fondest memories every time. If the smashing selection of whiskies and beers aren’t tempting enough, then the seasonal mulled wine option is sure to do it.
For a post-work pick-me-up or a welcomed dose of Dutch courage before braving Santa Land, follow your nose to the Scottish Market on West George Street. After sampling the most mouth-watering eats and best locally sourced produce from across Scotland, wash it down with the liquid gold that is mulled wine. This foodie sanctuary will be around from 26th November until 24th December, leaving you plenty of time to taste it all.
Bar, Cocktail Bar, Restaurant, Restaurant with Rooms, Hotel Restaurant, Contemporary, Fusion
Head Pastry Chef Sam Clark | Courtesy Of Tigerlily
Always a fail-safe pick for those seeking a luxurious watering hole complete with top-notch nosh, a trip to Tigerlily is a treat to say the least. A fine spot for those who, due to unforeseen circumstances, cannot fathom the thought of more mulled wine, Tigerlily has outdone itself this year with a counter-cultural mulled gin alternative. It’s true. Besides, who says wine is more fun anyway?
