7 Best Spots for Mulled Wine in Paris During Winter
Looking for the perfect mulled wine spots in Paris? I've found seven cozy hideaways where you'll discover this warming winter treat! Le Petit Bistrot in Le Marais serves a secret family recipe, while Cave Des Abbesses offers traditional earthenware mugs in Montmartre. Don't miss La Dernière Goutte's honey-infused blend, Place des Vosges' Christmas market vendors, L'Alchimiste's vegan option, La Cave Des Papilles' unique white version, or Le Chalet Savoyard's mountain-style creation. Let's explore each location's special charm and seasonal offerings!
Le Petit Bistrot: A Hidden Gem in Le Marais
Tucked away in the charming streets of Le Marais, Le Petit Bistrot stands as a beacon of warmth during Paris's chilly winter months. This intimate establishment has perfected the art of mulled wine (vin chaud), serving their signature recipe that has been delighting locals and tourists alike for over two decades.
The bistrot's rustic wooden interior, complete with vintage French posters and flickering candlelight, creates the ideal ambiance for savoring this seasonal specialty. While many establishments offer mulled wine during winter, Le Petit Bistrot's unique blend of spices and their commitment to using quality regional wines sets them apart from the typical tourist spots.
Quick Facts:
- Price: €6-8 per glass, €20-24 for a carafe
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 4 PM to 11 PM
- Reservations: Recommended for groups of 4+
- Seating: 28 indoor seats, 12 heated terrace seats
- Payment: Cash and major credit cards accepted
- Special dietary notes: Vegan wine options available
The signature mulled wine at Le Petit Bistrot combines Côtes du Rhône red wine with an aromatic mixture of cinnamon, star anise, orange zest, and a secret blend of spices passed down through generations. Located at 24 Rue des Rosiers, this cozy establishment offers both indoor seating in their timber-beamed main room and a heated terrace perfect for people-watching. Unlike many tourist-oriented venues, they maintain consistent quality throughout the day and offer wine by both glass and carafe. Insider tip: Request their "spice-forward" version, an off-menu variation that emphasizes the cardamom and clove notes.
Pro Tips:
The best time to visit is between 4-6 PM, during their "l'heure heureuse" (happy hour), when each glass comes with complimentary spiced nuts. For the best experience, pair your mulled wine with their house-made charcuterie board, specially curated to complement the warm spices in the wine. Photography enthusiasts will find the most atmospheric lighting conditions just after sunset, when the bistrot's vintage lamps create a golden glow perfect for capturing the ambiance.
When planning your visit, keep in mind that Le Marais becomes especially busy during weekend evenings. Consider making a reservation for Thursday or Sunday visits to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while still experiencing the neighborhood's vibrant energy. Remember to dress warmly if you prefer terrace seating, though the provided blankets and heat lamps guarantee comfort even on the coldest Paris evenings.
Cozy Winter Evenings at Cave Des Abbesses
Tucked away in the charming Montmartre district, Cave Des Abbesses stands as a beloved winter sanctuary for both locals and tourists seeking the ideal mulled wine experience in Paris. This intimate wine cave, with its stone walls and warm lighting, transforms into an especially magical destination during the cold months when the scent of spiced wine fills its centuries-old cellar.
The establishment has earned its reputation not just for its exceptional mulled wine, but for creating an authentically Parisian winter atmosphere that captures the essence of the season. Unlike many tourist-oriented venues, Cave Des Abbesses maintains its traditional character while offering one of the city's most refined interpretations of this classic winter warmer, using a secret blend of spices passed down through generations.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €6-12 per glass of mulled wine
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 4 PM-11 PM
- Reservations: Recommended for groups of 4+
- Seating Capacity: 30 people
- Seasonal Availability: October through March
- Special Events: Weekly wine tasting sessions (Thursday evenings)
- Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted
- Languages Spoken: French, English, Spanish
The cave's signature mulled wine recipe combines carefully selected regional wines with an aromatic blend of cinnamon, star anise, and orange zest, among other secret ingredients. The warm beverage is served in traditional earthenware mugs, adding to the authentic experience. Located at 43 Rue des Abbesses, the venue is easily accessible from the Abbesses metro station (Line 12). Insider tip: Request a table near the back wall where centuries-old wine storage niches create natural conversation spaces.
Pro Tips:
The best time to visit Cave Des Abbesses is between 6-8 PM when the ambiance is at its peak and before the evening crowd arrives. Consider pairing your mulled wine with their curated cheese plate, specifically selected to complement the spiced wine's flavor profile. For photography enthusiasts, the soft lighting and historic architecture are best captured during the early evening hours when natural light still filters through the street-level windows.
Practical Advice:
While Cave Des Abbesses welcomes walk-ins, weekends can become extremely busy, particularly after 8 PM. During peak winter season (December-January), making a reservation at least two days in advance is strongly recommended. Dress warmly as the cellar maintains a cool temperature even with heating, and consider bringing cash as some special seasonal offerings may be cash-only. The establishment also offers bottles of their pre-mixed mulled wine spice blend for purchase, allowing guests to recreate the experience at home.
Traditional Recipes at La Dernière Goutte
La Dernière Goutte, nestled in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, has earned its reputation as one of Paris's most authentic destinations for traditional mulled wine (vin chaud). This family-owned wine shop and tasting room has been serving their secret mulled wine recipe for over three decades, carefully crafting each batch using locally-sourced spices and premium French wines.
What sets La Dernière Goutte apart is their commitment to maintaining traditional mulling methods passed down through generations of Parisian wine merchants. During winter months, the shop transforms into a cozy haven where visitors can experience mulled wine prepared according to time-honored recipes, each featuring unique spice combinations that complement the carefully selected base wines.
Quick Facts:
- Price: €5-8 per glass, €25-30 for take-home bottles
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00-19:30; Sunday tastings by reservation
- Reservations: Required for weekend tastings, recommended for groups of 4+
- Dietary notes: Vegan-friendly options available
- Languages: English-speaking staff available
- Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum €15)
Their signature traditional recipe combines Côtes du Rhône red wine with an aromatic blend of cinnamon, star anise, and orange zest, enhanced by a touch of local honey. The shop is located at 6 Rue de Bourbon le Château, easily accessible from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro station. What many don't know is that they offer complimentary spice packets with wine purchases during December, allowing customers to recreate their favorite blend at home.
Pro Tips:
Visit between 15:00-17:00 on weekdays for the freshest batch of mulled wine and a less crowded experience. Request a seat by the window to enjoy people-watching while sipping your drink. For the full experience, pair your mulled wine with their curated cheese plate, featuring selections that specifically complement the spice profile of their signature recipe.
Practical Advice:
While La Dernière Goutte accepts walk-ins, making a reservation guarantees you'll get to experience their tasting room service, which includes detailed explanations of their recipes and wine selection process. During peak holiday season (December-January), book at least one week in advance. Consider bringing a thermal bottle if you plan to purchase their mulled wine for takeaway, as they offer a small discount for using your own container.
The Best Christmas Market Vin Chaud at Place Des Vosges
Place des Vosges transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, and its Christmas market has earned a reputation for serving some of Paris's finest vin chaud (mulled wine). This historic square, surrounded by stunning 17th-century architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring this traditional winter warming drink, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Parisian holiday charm.
The market's mulled wine stands, operated by local vendors who have perfected their recipes over generations, offer unique variations of this beloved beverage. Each stall presents its own special blend of spices and wine, creating distinctive flavor profiles that range from classic cinnamon-forward combinations to more experimental versions featuring local French wine varieties and unexpected spice combinations.
Quick Facts:
- Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (November 25 – December 24)
- Price Range: €3-6 per cup
- Payment Methods: Cash and cards accepted
- Cup Deposit: €1 (refundable)
- Best Visiting Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (peak atmosphere)
- Location: 4th arrondissement
- Nearest Metro: Saint-Paul (Line 1)
The Marché de Noël at Place des Vosges features three primary mulled wine vendors, each offering distinct specialties. The standout is Maison Laurent's stall, located in the northwest corner of the square, known for its signature orange-and-star-anise blend using Côtes du Rhône as a base. Their mulled wine is served in traditional ceramic cups, which help maintain the perfect drinking temperature. Insider tip: Visit their stall after 5 PM when they add a splash of aged cognac to each serving at no extra charge.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate Place des Vosges mulled wine experience, time your visit for dusk when the Christmas lights illuminate the square. The combination of historical architecture, twinkling lights, and warming drink creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Consider purchasing a cup from multiple vendors to compare different recipes, and don't hesitate to ask about the specific spice blends – most vendors are happy to share their non-secret ingredients and wine selection process.
Practical Advice:
Dress warmly as the seating is outdoors, and consider bringing a small thermos if you plan to take some mulled wine for a walk through the nearby Marais district (vendors will usually accommodate this request). While weekends can be crowded, Wednesday and Thursday evenings offer a more relaxed atmosphere with shorter queues. Remember to eat something substantial before drinking, as the market also offers excellent holiday treats that pair perfectly with mulled wine, such as roasted chestnuts and traditional pain d'épices.
Historic Wine Bar L'Alchimiste in Saint-Germain
Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, L'Alchimiste stands as a reflection of Paris's enduring love affair with mulled wine. This 17th-century wine bar, with its vaulted stone cellars and centuries-old wooden beams, transforms into a winter sanctuary where the ancient art of spiced wine preparation continues to enchant visitors and locals alike.
During the winter months, L'Alchimiste becomes particularly magical as the scent of cinnamon, star anise, and orange peel wafts through its intimate spaces. The establishment's mulled wine recipe, passed down through generations of vintners, has earned a reputation as one of the finest in Paris, drawing connoisseurs from across the globe who seek authentic vin chaud prepared according to traditional methods.
Quick Facts:
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 4 PM – 1 AM
- Price Range: €8-12 per glass of mulled wine
- Reservations: Recommended for groups of 4+
- Seating Capacity: 45 indoor, 20 heated terrace
- Dietary Notes: Vegan mulled wine option available
- Payment: Cards accepted (minimum €20)
- Language: English-speaking staff available
L'Alchimiste's main salon features original stonework and copper fixtures that create an atmospheric backdrop for winter evenings. The signature house mulled wine combines carefully selected Burgundy red with a proprietary blend of spices, honey, and citrus. The establishment's location at 27 Rue Saint-André des Arts places it perfectly for post-sightseeing refreshment. Insider tip: Request a table in the back corner near the ancient well – it's the warmest spot and offers the best people-watching vantage point.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate L'Alchimiste experience, visit between 5-7 PM when the bar offers its "L'Heure Magique" (Magic Hour), featuring complimentary spiced nuts with each mulled wine order. The bar's intimate atmosphere is best enjoyed midweek when the tourist crowds are thinner, and you can engage with the knowledgeable staff about their wine-making processes and historical anecdotes about the building's alchemical past.
Practical Advice:
While L'Alchimiste accepts walk-ins, the cozy space fills quickly on cold evenings. Consider making a reservation through their website at least 48 hours in advance, especially during December and January. Dress warmly even for indoor seating, as the historic building's stone walls can be chilly despite heating. The bar's location near multiple metro stops (Odéon and Saint-Michel) makes it easily accessible, but remember that service ends 30 minutes before closing time.
Seasonal Specialties at La Cave Des Papilles
Nestled in the vibrant 14th arrondissement, La Cave Des Papilles transforms into a winter wonderland of warmth and spice during Paris's colder months. This beloved wine shop, known for its exceptional natural wine selection, elevates the traditional mulled wine experience with carefully crafted seasonal variations that showcase both French and international influences.
During winter, their master sommeliers create signature mulled wine recipes that change weekly, incorporating unique combinations of spices, local honey, and carefully selected wine bases. What sets La Cave Des Papilles apart is their commitment to using high-quality organic wines as the foundation for their mulled creations, rather than the lower-quality wines often used elsewhere.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €6-12 per glass, €25-35 for take-home bottles
- Reservations: Required for tasting sessions (48 hours in advance)
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-20:00; Sunday, 11:00-17:00
- Dietary Notes: Vegan options available (honey-free versions)
- Languages: English-speaking staff available
- Payment: Cards accepted (minimum €15)
Signature Winter Offerings:
Their classic house mulled wine features organic Côtes du Rhône as a base, infused with Madagascar vanilla, star anise, and local citrus. The recipe changes subtly throughout the season as different spices and fruits come into peak availability. A unique offering includes their "Vin Chaud Blanc," a white mulled wine made with Alsatian Gewürztraminer, featuring notes of ginger, lemongrass, and honey.
Tasting Experiences:
The shop offers guided tasting sessions every Saturday afternoon, where visitors can sample different mulled wine variations alongside traditional French winter snacks. An expert sommelier explains the wine selection process and spice-blending techniques. Insider tip: Book the 4 PM session for the freshest batches and smaller crowds.
Pro Tips:
The best time to visit is mid-week, between 3-5 PM, when fresh batches are typically prepared and the shop is less crowded. For the fullest experience, participate in their "Spice Workshop" (offered monthly), where you can create your own mulled wine blend under expert guidance. Their house-made spice sachets are available for purchase, perfect for recreating the experience at home.
Practical Advice:
While the shop welcomes walk-ins, planning ahead is essential during peak winter season (December-January). Consider joining their newsletter for special tasting events and limited-edition releases. The shop offers insulated containers for take-away mulled wine, keeping it warm for up to two hours – ideal for evening strolls through nearby Luxembourg Gardens or impromptu picnics, weather permitting.
Mountain-Style Mulled Wine at Le Chalet Savoyard
Tucked away in the charming 11th arrondissement, Le Chalet Savoyard brings the cozy ambiance of the French Alps to the heart of Paris. This authentic Savoyard restaurant has earned a reputation for serving one of the city's most distinctive versions of mulled wine, crafted using a generations-old recipe from the Alpine region.
The establishment's mountain-style mulled wine (vin chaud à la savoyarde) stands out for its unique blend of traditional spices enhanced with local mountain herbs and a splash of Génépi, an Alpine liqueur made from mountain flowers. This special touch creates a warming experience that transports visitors from the Parisian streets to a snug mountain chalet.
Quick Facts:
- Price: €6-8 per glass, €22 for a carafe (4-5 servings)
- Best visiting hours: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM (peak atmosphere)
- Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekend evenings
- Seasonal availability: October through March
- Dietary notes: Vegan-friendly version available upon request
- Outdoor seating: Heated terrace available
The Signature Experience:
Le Chalet Savoyard's mulled wine is served in traditional ceramic mugs, keeping the drink at ideal temperature while adding to the authentic Alpine experience. The recipe combines red wine with cinnamon, star anise, and orange zest, but the secret ingredient is their house-made mountain herb syrup, which includes wild thyme and génépi. Their heated outdoor terrace, decorated with wooden elements and traditional Alpine textiles, provides an atmospheric setting for enjoying this winter warmer.
Location: 58 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Contact: +33 1 43 46 63 95
Insider Tip: Request a table near the stone fireplace in the back room, where the mulled wine is actually prepared. The aromatic preparation process adds to the sensory experience, and these tables are often overlooked by tourists who stick to the front room.
Pro Tips:
The ideal time to enjoy mulled wine at Le Chalet Savoyard is during their "l'heure du vin chaud" (mulled wine hour) between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, when the drink is offered at a reduced price and comes with complimentary roasted chestnuts. Pair your mulled wine with their cheese fondue for the ultimate mountain dining experience, but be sure to make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance during peak winter season.
Practical Advice:
While Le Chalet Savoyard accepts walk-ins, the restaurant can become quite busy during winter evenings. Book ahead through their website or by phone, and consider visiting on weekdays when the atmosphere is more relaxed. The closest Metro stations are Charonne (Line 9) and Ledru-Rollin (Line 8), both within a 5-minute walk. Dress warmly if you plan to sit on the terrace, though blankets are provided for extra comfort.