Season’s eatings: how peppermint became the flavor of winter

Candy canes, peppermint bark and minty mochas are signs the holidays are here - but how did it come to be?

Peppermint has been the reigning flavor of winter since before pumpkin spice conquered the autumn season. Candy canes, peppermint bark, and Starbucks peppermint mochas - now, they're all clear signs that you're overdue to start your holiday shopping.

But the association between peppermint and the winter holidays is still somewhat of a mystery. After all, peppermint is an herb commonly harvested in the spring and summer months. Pumpkins and apples are both autumn harvests, so their historical connection is clear. So, how did a minty herb become the icon of the coldest months of the year?