Wine & Culture: 3 Christmas Wine Traditions From These 5 Countries

Originated from Britain, Eggnog has now become a festive drink in Europe and North America. At first, it was a drink invented by British aristocracy to keep warm during the winter. The main components of Eggnog were only milk, eggs, cream, sugar, and it was served with cinnamon or nutmeg. Later, spirits including rum, brandy, or dessert wine are also added to the drink, turning it into a popular Christmas cocktail in U.S.A and Canada.

The Wassail is a Medieval Christmastide British drinking ritual ensuring a good cider apple harvest in the following year. The word ‘Wassail’ comes from an Old English phrase, which means ‘good health’, and thus  “Wassail” is always used as a salutation or toast. There is even a Christmas carol called “Here We Come A-wassailing”!  Wassail is made of wine with roasted apples, ginger, curdled cream and spices, often served with a huge bowl.

It’s cold at Christmas, so let’s have some hot wine to keep you warm. You can try the traditional European Christmas drink – Mulled Wine. It is made with red wine, various mulling spices and fruits. It is aromatic and easy to drink. Several European countries have their own versions of this delicious and scentful drink. For example, it is called Glühwein in Germany, which will be bolstered with a fair amount of rum or other spirits; Vin Chaud is the French version of mulled wine, which is usually flavoured with orange peel, honey and cinnamon sticks. You may try different versions of mulled wine and find your favourite version.