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🌸 Sweet Woodruff May Wine

A delicate springtime tradition from Europe — young woodruff leaves infused in white wine (or grape juice) to celebrate May rituals and new beginnings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 glasses
Course: Drinks, Homemade Wine
Cuisine: European, Foraged, Herbal
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 750 ml dry white wine or white grape juice for non-alcoholic
  • 6-8 sprigs fresh sweet woodruff picked before flowering
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar optional
  • a few slices of lemon or strawberries for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Glass jug or carafe
  • fine strainer
  • Small funnel optional

Method
 

  1. Harvest sweet woodruff leaves and let them wilt for 1–2 hours to develop their aroma.
  2. Place the leaves in a jug or carafe.
  3. Pour over wine (or grape juice).
  4. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (no longer than 3 hours).
  5. Strain and serve chilled with fruit or edible flowers.

Notes

💡 Tip: Traditionally enjoyed during May Day and Beltane celebrations as a toast to spring and renewal.
⚠️ Note: Use *Galium odoratum* (sweet woodruff) in moderation — only the wilted leaves are aromatic and safe.