Julkalender, Day 6 —Enjoy the classic Scandinavian spiced wine, glögg, and learn about its cultural significance

By Karen Lundgren

December 18, 2024

Glögg is a spiced red wine or other non-alcoholic juice, similar to what Americans call mulled wine and Germans know as glüwein, that has been enjoyed in Finland, Sweden and other Nordic countries in winter, especially around Christmastime for many decades. Made with added spices such as cinnamon and cloves in addition to sugar, it is best when the drink is hot. When served after coming in from the cold of winter activities such a skiing and Christmas market, glögg is a favorite in Finland.

Here, thanks to BigInFinland.com is a recipe so that you can try it at home:

Glögg

Ingredients
  • 1 bottle of red wine
  • 2-3 tbsp Madeira wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 1/3 cup of raisins
  • 1-2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5-6 orange peels
  • 1/4 cup of peeled almonds
  • 1/4 cup of vodka or rum to add the extra kick (optional)

Heat it all up but don’t cook through, and enjoy in a cup or mug.


Enjoying SFHS’ Julkalender 2024? Gift a membership to family or friends who could enjoy experiences like this all year round.

Links to stay engaged with the 2024 Julkalender and the Swedish Finnish Historical Society

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