Everyone always associates Germany with great beer, and they certainly aren’t wrong. But in case you didn’t know, I’m here to tell you they are on top of their wine game. The first time I ever tasted wine was in Germany, and it only took a few sips before I was hooked on German wines! This post is less of a recipe and more of an informal how-to for creating a unique German wine cocktail.

Maibowle is a fruity, floral drink that you can find around Germany during the month of May. The key  ingredient is Waldmeister (in English, it’s called Woodruff). My Dad recently discovered that you can buy Waldmeister here in the states, so he bought some last year and planted it in the backyard:

This is what it looks like before it blossoms, which is when you need to use it for Maibowle and other drinks. You simply take a few sprigs of Waldmeister, tie them together with string, and let them wilt in the sun for around 30 minutes. This helps the Waldmeister release its lovely aroma that will perfume the wine. After the Waldmeister has wilted, place it in a pitcher with a crisp white wine (we used a Pinot Grigio). Let this mixture infuse in the fridge for another 30 minutes or so, and there you have it! You can drink the infused wine as is, or top it off with champagne or sparkling water. Since strawberries are also in season, you could also place a few fresh slices of strawberry in the glass.

Here are my parents enjoying Maibowle. Aren’t they so cute?! I also had to snap a picture of this cutie, because he was happily gnawing on a piece of driftwood they brought him back from the beach:

One day when I join the 21st century and eventually get a smartphone, I can tell you that my phone will be filled only with food and puppy pictures. Probably the only reason I would even want a smartphone would be for the quick availability of a camera to constantly photograph the dog. Seriously!

…But back to Maibowle.

The best thing about this drink is the aroma when you bring the glass to your nose. Words cannot accurately describe the delightfully herbaceous essence the Waldmeister has. If you can get your hands on some Woodruff, you have to try this drink! And if you can’t, come on over and I’ll make you a glass 😉

Prost!