Lost in Plovdiv

Wine has been a favorite drink of people for centuries and is often present at festive tables. With the onset of winter, we are increasingly turning to its beneficial properties for relaxation, warming or healing, and on cold days we prefer it to the mulled wine version. In many western countries, tradition has made it an integral part of the Christmas table, in the same way as plant-based meals are for the Bulgarian. Normally mulled wine is made from red wine by adding aromatic spices, fruits, nuts, sugar or honey. It is served hot but can also be warm. There are recipes for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Suitable types of red wine for aromatic drinks are port wine and burgundy, and the first information about the drink dates from the ancient Roman Empire.

In the last days of 2019, the Lost in Plovdiv team embarked on a short stroll through the art district to find some places under the hills where we can enjoy its vitality.

We start with one of the newer places in Kapana - Wine time 73 • 83. This is a neat place at the top of the creative area where wine is the center of everything. They also offer delicious additions in the form of tapas, and tasting of premium varieties is often organized for connoisseurs. They open in the afternoon, so the next time you are close, be sure to stop by for a glass of incredible drink with a tempting taste. Remember that in the cold season, moderate drinking can also be beneficial because it acts as a natural antibiotic in the body, boosts immunity and protects the body from disease.

Our next stop is the Veggic Restaurant. The mulled wine was recently added to their special winter menu, but it already has its fans. The recipe is homemade with spices like cinnamon, star anise, cloves and cardamom that give it a rather intense taste. You can pair it with a delicious burger for dinner or lunch, or just enjoy it with friends in one of the busiest streets in the neighborhood.

We also found mulled wine at Divino Café. They have quite a selection of wines, so it's definitely worth giving it a shot and trying their hot elixir recipe. Mulled wine is thought to be the winter version of sangria, and what better occasion to have a warm drink after long walks around the holidays.

Otsreshta is another place to stop for a sip or a glass. They prepare their elixir with cinnamon, lemon peel, orange juice, cumin, cloves, and best of all, there are 2 halls available and you can even work in one as you sip. They are open until 8pm if there is no event, so hurry to warm up there as well.

Be sure to take a walk from 23.12 to 27.12 at the Christmas Bazaar in Plovdiv. It will be located on the Little Main in front of the Hali, and there is always at least one booth offering mulled wine. If it is a raspberry version, do not hesitate, but be sure to try it. Afterwards it is guaranteed that viewing will be more enjoyable and in a more upbeat mood.

Which spot with mulled wine have we missed? Share in the comments!