Mulling Over Glühwein

By Connor Brown at The Grapevine in Gruene

      A New Year in New Braunfels is always in accompaniment with new memories, hope, and love as we all wander into another year of exploration and improvement. With it we enjoy some cooler weather, chilly nights by the fire, and all the wonderful beverages that simply belong to the season. Nothing is better than walking through Gruene as the sun sets, enjoying a piping hot cup of Glühwein, and being surrounded by people and things we love. But what is Glühwein, and why should we love it?

      Many of us are familiar with the world of mulled wine or are at least familiar with the concept, but those who aren’t– fear not! Mulled wine is called many different things across the world, but as proud New Braunfelsers, we like to adhere to our German heritage and simply call it Glühwein. Traditionally, Glühwein is made from dry red wine and mulling spices like clove, star anise, cinnamon, orange zest, and sugar. Letting these ingredients simmer creates an aromatic and delectable warm beverage to sip through holiday markets and other outdoor activities, keeping us warm and motivated. However, this can be a process for those less handy in the kitchen, and luckily this elixir is available by the bottle ready to heat, then drink.

      Schmitt Söhne is a notable winery from Longuich, Germany that has been making wine along the Rhone for over 200 years, and with the wonders of industry, excellent and authentic German wine can be found especially in New Braunfels- and their Glühwein is on the menu at The Grapevine! This particular Glühwein is semi-sweet with notes of cinnamon and orange zest that makes for the perfect porch companion. Simply pour from the bottle, heat (don’t boil!), and serve!
      For hundreds of years Glühwein has been served across the world, and wine drinkers rejoice to have their own winter beverage. But even if wine’s not your thing, most people can agree on its effectiveness to combating cold weather and keeping the festive spirit alive. So, grab your favorite mug, pour up a cup of cheer and enjoy the season while it lasts!

2019 Gruene Hall Year in Review

      What a year! In 2019, the Gruene Hall stage hosted everything from new favorites like Charley Crockett to old faithfuls like Pat Green, the southern soul of Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears to the rockabilly swing of Two Tons of Steel. And don't forget about the special shows: the birthday parties (Roger Creager!), festivals (Tanya Tucker at Gruene Music & Wine Fest), and holiday specials (Wynonna and the Big Noise Rockin' Roots Christmas). We were named Best of New Braunfels and partied with friends in low places.

      We could be here all day talking about the good music that's filled the Hall this year, but who wants to read it? How about a playlist you can listen to whenever you want? We did it. Take a look back at a year's worth of music with the 2019 Gruene Hall Year in Review playlist! It includes the most-played song of each ticketed show this year. 

Just the hits, y'all, so sing it if you know it!

Visit the Gruene Hall Gallery or follow us on Instagram to see more pictures from 2019.

Playlist: Deck the Hall

Can't get enough Christmas music? We've got you covered!

A unique soundtrack for the season, hear some Gruene Hall favorites and their Christmas cheer. Sing along to classics and originals from Willie Nelson, George Strait, LeAnn Rimes, Dale Watson and more!