Saxon Glühwein Producers See Rising Demand for White Variants

Despite poor harvests and rising costs, Saxony's glühwein makers expand offerings as white and alcohol-free options gain popularity.

Saxony's glühwein producers are experiencing strong demand, with pre-orders returning to pre-pandemic levels despite significant fruit harvest losses in 2024.
White glühwein, often made from fruits like pear, quince, or apple, is becoming as popular as traditional red varieties, with some producers predicting it will surpass red soon.
Local keltereien (fruit juice makers) and winemakers are diversifying their product lines, with 34 small producers in the regional Fruchtsaftverband Sachsen reporting rising sales of glühwein and other winter beverages.
Historical recipes, such as the 190-year-old white glühwein formula from the Sächsisches Staatsweingut, are being revived and modernized to cater to evolving consumer tastes.
Rising production costs due to poor harvests and increased fruit prices are expected to lead to higher prices for glühwein this season, particularly for fruit-based varieties.