Places to get glühwein (and recipe to make it at home)

Psst...Can you keep a secret?

Last updated: Friday, 7 July 2023

You never want glühwein until that one chilly day. We found a place out of town that not many people know of, and a popular hangout in town that secretly has it on their menu. Plus, here’s a simple home recipe from a long-time friend and owner of multiple eateries in Hermanus, Petri Hendriksz. 

Glühwein originates in Germany and is also very popular in Austria. Image: Lara van Zyl

GLÜHWEIN INGREDIENTS

• 1 bottle of red wine (of choice)
• Water
• 1 orange peel
• Juice of 1 orange
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Ground cloves
• 1 whole star anise
• 1/2 cup sugar
  

HOW TO MAKE GLÜHWEIN

Put a pan on medium heat.

Add water, sugar, cinnamon stick and star anise and simmer until the sugar dissolves. 

Add a teaspoon of ground cloves and pour in the red wine. 

Chop up orange peels. Add them and the fresh orange juice into a bowl. 

Add the orange peels and juice to the glühwein mix in the pot and let simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.  

Strain through a sieve into mugs and throw away the peels and spices. Always serve hot.

AND…If you’re really cold, you can add an extra shot of brandy or rum to each mug. 

WHERE TO GET GLÜHWEIN

• Rick’s Café Americain – This cosy bar based on the story of Casablanca has a secret menu item (hint: it's glühwein). With its crackling fireplace, throwback tunes and old-timey bar, Rick’s is a a popular hangout. And a go-to spot for a warm glass of glühwein. Find 8 more reasons to visit Rick’s.

• Pear Tree – The bistro is on the strip of the Hermanus Waterfront. It has a remarkable range of curious menu items, now including freshly made glühwein. See more of their inventive dishes and cocktails. 

• Cape Town Meadery – An ancient African drink in the form of gluhwein. Join for one of the tasting experiences (you get sparkling mead or mead lager, too) or find out where to buy it. 

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