What Are Wine Gums

Picture this: you're lounging at home, enjoying a glass of your favorite wine, and you suddenly crave something sweet. A little something to complement your drink, perhaps? Just the thought of it brings up images of chewy, fruity wine gums. But what exactly are wine gums, and why do they have wine in their name? Buckle up, fellow wine enthusiasts and sweet lovers! This article is going to dive deep into the world of wine gums, their origin, and why they have become a beloved treat for wine connoisseurs and candy aficionados alike.

What are Wine Gums?

Wine gums are a type of chewy, sugar-coated candy that originated in the United Kingdom in the early 20th century. Created by Charles Gordon Maynard in 1909, wine gums were initially marketed as an adult sweet for the "discriminating palate". Despite their name, these gummy delights do not contain any alcohol. Instead, they come in a variety of fruit flavors, and their name is derived from the fact that the flavors were inspired by popular types of wine at the time, such as Port, Sherry, Burgundy, and Champagne.

The History Behind Wine Gums

Charles Gordon Maynard was part of the Maynards candy dynasty, a company founded by his father, Charles Riley Maynard, in 1880. The elder Maynard was a teetotaler and initially disapproved of his son's idea to create a candy with a wine-inspired name. However, after Charles Gordon proved that wine gums contained zero alcohol, his father agreed to create and sell the product. Since then, wine gums have become a popular sweet treat in the UK and various other countries.

Brands and Available Flavors

Several different companies produce wine gums today, with Maynards remaining the original and most well-known brand in the UK. Other popular brands include Bassett's (owned by Cadbury), Rowntrees (owned by Nestlé), and A.L. Simpkin & Co. The exact flavors and shapes of their wine gums vary slightly between brands, but common flavors include blackcurrant (representing Port), strawberry (Burgundy), raspberry (Champagne), and orange (Sherry).

Why are Wine Gums a Favorite Treat?

So, why have wine gums become such a beloved candy for both wine lovers and sweet tooths alike? Here are a few reasons:

• A Unique Texture: Wine gums have a distinct, firm, and chewy texture that sets them apart from other gummy candies. This allows for a longer-lasting enjoyment of the delectable flavors as you savor each piece.
• Delicious Flavors: The wine-inspired flavors of wine gums are more refined and sophisticated than your average fruity candy. This makes them an appealing choice for adults who appreciate the nuances of wine and the fruit flavors that inspired these candies.
• An Intriguing Name: The history and name behind this candy can spark some interesting conversations at parties or gatherings, making them a great icebreaker for any social event.

What Are Wine Gums Example:

Imagine a group of friends gathered for a fun evening of wine tasting and lively banter. One of them brings out a box of wine gums to share with the group. As they dig into the chewy treats, they discuss the history, flavors, and texture of wine gums. In addition to satisfying their sweet tooth, this simple candy serves to enhance the overall appreciation of the wine-drinking experience and creates a memorable moment for everyone involved.

Now that you know all about wine gums, the delicious confection with an intriguing backstory, it's time to give these chewy treats a try the next time you uncork a bottle of wine or host a wine-tasting soirée. Share your newfound knowledge with friends and family, and don't forget to include a pack of wine gums on your next shopping list! To learn more about wine and other wine-related topics, check out our other articles on Black Wine Club and share the love with other wine enthusiasts. Cheers!