Europe

Prost Every Moment with Wines of Germany USA

Did you know “Prost” is the German word for “cheers”? Neither did I. That’s why when Wines of Germany USA approached me about collaborating with them on the “Prost Every Moment” campaign, I couldn't say no.

The last two years have been challenging for us all. Between the pandemic, working from home, and dodging a deadly virus at every turn, our entire lives were upended and we’ve been in a whirlwind ever since. That’s why it’s so important to celebrate life at every opportunity and German wines are perfect to “prost every moment,” big or small. From the novice to the wine aficionado, German wines are great for an imaginary adventurous escape to Germany or just treating yourself to a nice glass (or bottle if it’s a Friday night) of wine.

To be honest, I consider myself somewhere in between a novice and an aficionado. I know more than the average person but I know there is SO much more to learn. I had no idea how I’d feel about German wines or if I’d even be able to tell the difference between them and wines from other regions.

I tried The Seeker Riesling from Germany’s Mosel region and A. Christmann Spätburgunder from the Pfalz region, and honestly, was pleasantly surprised by both. According to Wines of Germany’s website, “Spätburgunder is to red wine what Riesling is to white wine: the cream of the crop.” Spätburgunder is the German name for Pinot Noir, translating to- late (spät) ripening pinot (burgunder). Germany is actually the world’s third largest producer of Pinot Noir! This Spätburgunder was full-bodied and complex like you’d expect from a Pinot Noir. I enjoyed it with a delicious salmon meal with my friend, Meghan, and she enjoyed it as well.

But I’d have to say The Seeker was our favorite. It is the perfect Riesling, which Germany is actually known for. But I’d have to say The Seeker was our favorite. It is the perfect Riesling, which Germany is actually known for. In fact, Germany is widely regarded as the birthplace of Riesling, with written records of the grape as early as 1435 but likely dating back much earlier. The Seeker was light, floral and just sweet enough. We enjoyed The Seeker as an aperitif with appetizers, but it can also be enjoyed with both sweet and spicy foods. While this Riesling is off-dry, the majority of wines made in Germany are actually dry! Riesling is a versatile grape that can be vinified in styles from bone dry to lusciously sweet.

Meghan and I had a great night escaping to Germany through our imagination! Whether you’re indulging in a glass of wine with friends, treating yourself because you had a great day, or you’re celebrating a promotion or new home, celebrate life and prost every moment with German wines!

Check out Wine.com if you’d like to try The Seeker Riseling or the A. Christmann Spätburgunder for yourself!

While this post was sponsored by Wines of Germany USA, all opinions are my own. I’d never lead you astray. :)

Holiday Drinks: The Best Mulled Wine Recipe

I love this time of year and all of the festive food, drinks, and activities available. Europe is known for their amazing Christmas markets. It’s like a winter wonderland for people of all ages. And of course where there’s food, there’s drink. You’ll be hard pressed to find a Christmas market with no mulled wine, also known as ‘gluhwein’ (pronounced ‘glue wine’) in German-speaking countries.

This easy recipe can be whipped up in about 20 minutes. Transport yourself to Europe with this spiced wine and be sure to send me a postcard!

Ingredients:

  • Bottle of your favorite red wine (I used Syrah)

  • 4 cups Apple Cider

  • 2 oranges

  • 4 star anise

  • 4 cinnamon sticks

  • 4 whole cloves

  • 1/4 cup honey

Instructions:

  1. Pour the bottle of wine into your crock pot or slow cooker. Do not turn on yet.

  2. Add all ingredients except the oranges.

  3. Add the zest of 1/4 an orange to the pot.

  4. Cut the orange into slices (about 6-8) and add them to the pot.

  5. Turn the pot on low/medium for about 20 minutes to heat. Stir occasionally.

  6. Pour in insulated mugs and enjoy! (You can filter the wine before enjoying if you don’t want the zest or other ingredients in your glasses.)

Like this mug? Click the image below and get yours! (affiliate link)

B8F2AFB5-9D3B-4F3C-B338-83CBFF8C08FC.jpg