🧪 The Science & Culture of Mulled Wine

Upper Intermediate (B2-C1) | Topic: Culture & Food Science

📺 1. Watch & Learn

Time: 6 mins

Reading

Whether you call it Glühwein, Glögi, or Mulled Wine, this hot alcoholic beverage is an essential part of the European winter experience. The tradition is even older than Christmas markets themselves, dating back to ancient times.

While delicious, it can quickly make you tipsy due to its hidden alcohol content and high sugar levels. Each region has its own variation; for instance, the Finnish version adds almonds and raisins, while the classic German style focuses on spices and citrus.

Making it requires patience. You must only simmer the wine; boiling it will kill the alcohol and create bitterness. Originally used as a medicinal remedy in the Middle Ages, it now faces modern rivals like "Glüh-gin" and hot cider.

Finally, if you visit a market, don't forget the deposit system for the mugs—a sustainable way to enjoy this piece of cultural heritage.

🔗 2. Vocabulary Memory Match

Match the term to its definition. Correct pairs will disappear!

❓ 3. Comprehension Check

Watch the video and select the correct answer.

1. How does Finnish Glögi differ from standard German Glühwein?

  • It is made with white wine and has more sugar.
  • It uses blackcurrant wine and has less sugar.
  • It contains no alcohol and is served cold.

2. According to Chef Olympia, what is the most important rule when making mulled wine?

  • Simmer it gently, never boil it.
  • Always use the most expensive wine available.
  • Add extra vodka to make it stronger.

3. Historically, why did people in the Middle Ages drink mulled wine?

  • To celebrate the New Year exclusively.
  • Because water was too expensive.
  • As a medicine and to mask the taste of bad wine.

📝 4. Contextual Gap Fill

Complete the summary using the vocabulary from the video.

Word Bank

tipsy heritage essential rivals remedy simmer

1. Warm clothes are ____ if you visit a Christmas market in December.

2. Be careful not to drink too much, or the alcohol will make you ____ very quickly.

3. When cooking the sauce, let it ____ on low heat so the flavors blend together.

4. Honey and lemon tea is a common home ____ for a sore throat.

5. Although mulled wine is popular, it has many ____ like hot chocolate and cider.

6. Food is an important part of a country's cultural ____.

🎉 Lesson Complete & Summary

Well done! Review the definitions below.

  • Beverage
  • Tipsy
  • Heritage
  • Essential
  • Simmer
  • Remedy
  • Rival
  • Deposit

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