Here’s The Story Behind Glögg And Mulled Wine—And How To Make Your Own

Mulled wine and glögg are favorite festive beverages for the holiday season. Just the thought of a mug of one makes you feel all cozy. But have you ever wondered what exactly is in each and if there’s any difference between the two? If so, read on as we demystify these warming winter drinks.

According to The Huffington Post, mulled wine “is the English term for the drink that resembles glögg, Sweden’s festive wine beverage, but there are a few difference between the two that should be noted.”

Mulled Wine

Wikipedia states that mulled wine is a “beverage of European origins usually made with red wine along with various mulling spices and sometimes raisins. It is served hot or warm and is alcoholic, although there are non-alcoholic versions of mulled wine.” The traditional drink is popular in the winter, especially around the holidays.

Glögg

Glögg is basically a turbo-charged version of mulled wine that derives from Sweden. The Swedes add a lot more alcohol to the mix. HuffPo mentions that they usually go with aquavit, a popular Scandinavian spirit, or perhaps vodka. They also add dried fruit and nuts, which are then eaten with a spoon straight from the glass or mug.

If this sounds tasty to you and you want to try making your own authentic glögg, here’s what you’ll need:

• orange
• Turkish brown figs
• raisins
• cinnamon
• cloves
• star anise
• cardamom
• dry red wine
• bourbon
• vodka
• sugar
• carmelized almonds

Get the full instructions in the video, courtesy of Marcus Jenmark, who at the time this video was filmed was executive chef of New York City restaurant Aquavit. Merry Christmas! Or, as they say in Stockholm, “God Jul!”