May we introduce you to this traditional may wine?
May brings us from being teased about spring to the assurance that it’s finally here. In New England, that could be premature optimism…but the odds are good that we’re finally done with the cold, snowy weather. So let’s celebrate with a delicious May wine.
What is May wine – also known as Maitrank, Maiwein, Maibowle and Waldmeisterbow? (Now you know why we call it May wine!)
Danke for this Delicious May Wine
This beverage has its roots in Germany and is traditionally served on the holiday of May Day, a European celebration welcoming spring usually held on May first. You know – singing and dancing around the maypole, crowning the Queen of May, and many flowers. This brings us back to May wine and one flower in particular – sweet woodruff.
This fragrant herb, known as waldmeister in German, is a member of the mint family. It has small white flowers and grows as a ground cover in woody, shady areas in forests. And like many of us, it reawakens in early spring. The plant contains natural compounds called coumarins that give it a delicious scent reminiscent of fresh-cut hay and a sweet vanilla flavor that increases when the plant is dried. This is the secret ingredient in May wine.
Put Your Own Spin on this May Wine
Some people celebrate the tradition of May Day by making their version of May wine. They’ll gather the sweet woodruff, let the plant air out, and wilt naturally for a few hours, infuse it in a German Riesling. Many recipes and variations include making a punch by adding sparkling wine, club soda, fresh spring strawberries, and even brandy or cognac. Its lovely botanical and subtle citrusy notes are often referred to as the German answer to sangria.
Remember that the same thing that gives these flowers their powerful aroma – the coumarin – can be toxic at high doses. Many foods contain this compound, such as cherries, strawberries, and licorice, and unless you’re planning on going overboard, it’s safe to eat.
There are plenty of easy recipes out there if you’re adventurous, or you can also buy some bottled May wine. These will generally be young Rieslings with low alcohol content and a sweet, spicy flavor that can be pretty refreshing when part of a mixed bunch. Serve your May wine chilled, pack it up on a picnic and enjoy it all through the spring and summer.
