Glühwein - "Glow Wine"
Here we come a glühweining among the leaves so green.
Alright, alright so that’s not how the song goes, but warm, mulled glühwein (pronounced "gloo-vine") is similar to wassail, and is also associated with Christmas. Glühwein or “glow wine“ is technically a German drink, though many cultures have created warm, spiced wine drinks to brighten the long winter. Typically, glühwein is made with red wine, cloves, cinnamon, and lemon; sometimes it is served with an additional shot of liquor. The end result, served hot of course, is spicy and fragrant.
Glühwein is served on the slopes of Western European ski resorts, but more commonly you’ll find it at the Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt or Weihnachtmarkt). Every major city and most towns in Germany have a Christmas Market throughout the Advent season. Vendors set up their stalls in the town square. Local artisans sell handicrafts, holiday décor, and art while other booths dedicate themselves to standard/classic German food and glühwein. Some of the larger Christmas Markets set up a stage for entertainment and some even have carnival rides.
Here's a basic glühwein recipe. Feel free to improvise and adapt it to suit your preference. Or take the easy route and purchase a prepared glühwein mix which requires you simply heat the wine, add the seasoning, and serve.
German Glühwein
1 bottle dry red wine · 1/2 cup sugar · 1 lemon, quartered · 2/3 cup water · 1 cinnamon stick, halved · 4 whole cloves
Stick cloves into lemon quarters. Combine water, sugar, cinnamon, and cloved lemon quarters in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Add wine and heat. Do not boil; the alcohol will evaporate out. Strain spices and lemon out. Serve hot in mugs. Be warm and jolly.
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