When darkness falls early over Sweden and the air grows cold, there’s one tradition that brings warmth and comfort into every home glögg. This beloved Scandinavian mulled drink isn’t just something you pour into a cup; it’s a moment, a ritual, a feeling. Glögg is shared during Advent, served after Lucia processions, sipped at Christmas markets, and enjoyed during cosy evenings at home when candles flicker and families gather. It carries the scent of December: cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, cardamom and winter spice filling the room like a warm embrace.

Glögg has a long history in the Nordic region. The concept of mulled wine began as far back as Ancient Rome, where heated spiced wine was served for both warmth and health. As trade routes expanded northwards, the tradition followed, eventually reaching Scandinavia where long winters made hot drinks not just comforting, but necessary. In Sweden, the drink evolved into what we now call glögg (originally “glödgat vin” meaning glowed wine). By the 1800s it was a cherished Christmas drink, enjoyed during gatherings, celebrated in song, and passed down through family recipes. Today, glögg is an essential part of Swedish holiday culture.

There are typically two common ways Swedes enjoy glögg. The first is non-alcoholic glögg, perfect for family celebrations, Lucia mornings and fika with children. The second is the festive adult version, where glögg is gently mixed with red wine, port wine or a splash of rum or brandy for a warmer, deeper flavour. The key is to warm glögg slowly never boil it, as heat can reduce the aroma and evaporate alcohol if added. Traditionally it is served warm in small cups with raisins and blanched almonds at the bottom, a detail that softens and sweetens with every sip.

What makes glögg feel so special is the atmosphere that comes with it. It is rarely served alone. On the table you’ll find lussekatter (saffron buns), pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies), nuts, chocolates, saffron cake or winter pastries. Candles glow softly. Lights dim. Snow may be gathering outside the window. Glögg invites you to pause to slow down, to talk, to share. It is winter comfort in liquid form.

At Swedishness, we offer glögg blends, non-alcoholic glögg, spice mixes, raisins, almonds and winter baking essentials so you can recreate this heartfelt Scandinavian tradition anywhere in the world. Whether you’re preparing for Lucia, hosting a cosy December night, or simply wanting to bring Swedish festive warmth into your home, glögg creates a moment worth remembering.

Simple Traditional Glögg Recipe

You will need:
• 1 bottle non-alcoholic glögg (or spice mix + juice)
• Optional: red wine or port for a classic adult version
• Raisins & blanched almonds
• Cinnamon stick or orange slice for garnish

Method:

Warm glögg gently on low heat do not boil.

For alcoholic glögg, mix warm glögg with red wine or port (start with 2 parts glögg : 1 part wine and adjust).

Add raisins and almonds into each cup before serving.

Serve warm with lussekatter or gingerbread.

Simple, cosy, traditional Swedish warmth in every sip.

Bring Home the Taste of a Swedish Winter

Glögg is more than a drink it’s the scent of Advent, the memory of candlelit evenings and the flavour of Scandinavian comfort. One cup can turn a dark winter night into something glowing and calm. With Swedishness, you can enjoy authentic glögg wherever you are and share this beautiful tradition with friends, family or during your own peaceful fika.

Warm, spiced, and full of holiday spirit glögg is the drink that makes winter magical.