As December arrived, the iLPH team took great pleasure in spending their Friday evening in the festive pursuit of finding the very best mulled wine in our lovely Primrose Hill pubs. And as it turned out, it was hard to pick a winner, as there was something of everyone in our little village…
Valdemoreda at The Queen’s: A Citrus Symphony in a Glass
The Valdemoreda mulled wine at The Queen’s Pub took our senses on a zesty journey, with its strong orange aroma and flavour. The orange pieces infused a refreshing burst, harmonizing beautifully with the warmth of cinnamon. One participant praised the nice aroma, perfectly calibrated heat, and the delightful addition of fresh lemon. The consensus? The first sip felt like a true embodiment of what mulled wine should be. Bonus points were given for the cute glass, and the overall experience was crowned with a fruity, light taste.
Pembroke Castle: Cloves and Spice, but Where to Sit?
Moving on to Pembroke Castle, the mulled wine presented a bold combination of cloves and sharp spices. The overall environment was bustling, making it a challenge to find a cozy spot to sit and mull over our wine. Participants shared mixed opinions, with one noting the aromatic essence of clove and subtle lemon, while another found the taste somewhat tepid, lacking the vibrancy promised by the enticing aroma. The general consensus leaned towards a spiced-up experience and the wine was greatly enjoyed overall.
Lansdowne: Cloves Galore and Charming Atmosphere
At the Lansdowne, cloves took center stage, dominating both the smell and taste of the mulled wine. The atmosphere was, as you’d expect on a Friday night in December, buzzy and hectic, yet softened by the candlelit tables and fairy lights. One participant commended the pub’s efforts, from the well-labelled silver barrel to the attentive staff. The mulled wine was described as having a subtle and smooth taste, perfectly complementing the charming ambiance adorned with fairy lights. Another participant praised the cute glasses and the spiced aroma that reflected in every sip.
Engineer: Clove-Forward and Allergy-Friendly
The Engineer pub presented a mulled wine that didn’t shy away from its clove character, boasting a strong aroma and taste. The wider glass design added a touch of practicality to the overall experience. A participant applauded the staff’s dedication to allergy concerns, creating a respectful and pressure-free environment. The mulled wine delivered a hot and perfect drink with a taste that lingered, hitting with a deep clove flavour.
The Albert: A Clove-Infused Haven of Sweetness
At The Albert, the mulled wine experience was a symphony of cloves, hitting the senses with a strong and inviting aroma. The taste mirrored the fragrance, offering a robust and sugary embrace of cloves. What set this pub apart was the inclusion of star anise, adding a layer of complexity to the flavor profile. The atmosphere was notably cheery, especially with Angela in charge, creating a lively backdrop for the mulled wine tasting.
A participant highlighted the star anise presence in the drink, noting the additional elements of brandy, demerara sugar, and a hint of orange. This concoction delivered not just good warmth but also a smooth taste that resonated with the festive spirit. Another participant appreciated the well-balanced sweetness. The pub’s thoughtful Christmassy decorations added to the overall charm of the experience.
Sam’s Café: A Herbal and Fruity Melange
Stepping into Sam’s Café, the mulled wine ventured into unique territory, offering an aromatic experience with strong herbal notes. The taste unfolded like a rich fruit cake, with a strong clove essence that added depth. The sugary notes further intensified the overall sweetness, creating a decadent sip.
A participant captured the essence well, describing the drink as thick, aromatic, and fruitful. This unconventional twist on mulled wine showcased the café’s willingness to experiment with flavours, providing a memorable experience for those seeking a departure from the traditional.
In the grand tapestry of Primrose Hill’s mulled wine offerings, each pub painted a unique picture. From the citrus symphony at The Queen’s to the spiced charm of Lansdowne, and the clove-forward allure at Engineer, there’s a flavour for every palate. So, fellow Primrose Hill enthusiasts, follow the fairy lights and embark on your own mulled wine adventure in our delightful neighborhood! Cheers to festive sips and cozy moments! 🍷✨
© Joanna Reeves 2023, all rights reserved.
Great community service, well done! Did they all cost the same?
Thanks Eleanor! Much of a muchness price-wise