Swedish Glögg (Spiced Mulled Wine)

Name: Swedish Glögg (Spiced Mulled Wine)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 small servings
Cuisine: Swedish-inspired
Ingredients: 4 bags black tea; 500 ml boiling water; 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine; 100 ml brandy or dark rum; 100 g granulated sugar, to taste; 3 sticks cinnamon; 10 whole cloves; 5 whole cardamom pods, lightly crushed; 2 cm fresh ginger, sliced; 1 whole orange, sliced; 50 g blanched almonds; 50 g raisins; 1 pinch ground nutmeg

Warm Swedish-style mulled red wine infused with tea, orange, cinnamon, cloves and cardamom.

By Hez ArslanUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 35 minMakes 8 small servings

Jump to Recipe

Swedish glögg is a gently warmed spiced wine often served during the winter holidays. This version infuses black tea with cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and ginger, then adds red wine, citrus and a modest amount of spirit. Warm the mixture slowly and do not boil it; boiling drives off alcohol and can make the flavours harsh. Strain before serving and offer almonds or raisins separately. The tea base may be infused ahead, while the wine is best warmed shortly before guests arrive. Steep tea bags in boiling water with cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and ginger for 10 minutes. Remove tea bags and let spices infuse 5 minutes more. Strain the spiced tea into a saucepan. Add wine, orange, sugar and nutmeg. Warm over low heat until steaming, stirring to dissolve sugar; do not boil.

How to tell when it is ready

Drink is steaming hot but has not boiled.

Tips

Steep tea briefly to avoid bitterness.
Crush cardamom lightly.
Warm over low heat.
Add spirit after removing from heat.

Troubleshooting

If the dish cooks unevenly, cut ingredients into similar sizes.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Substitutions

Use a similar neutral cooking oil if needed.
Choose fresh herbs that complement the dish.

Variations

Adjust herbs or seasoning to taste.
Add a pinch of chilli for gentle heat.

Serving suggestions

Serve with ginger biscuits.
Offer blue cheese and crackers.
Add almonds and raisins.
Serve in heatproof mugs.

Make ahead

Prepare and measure ingredients in advance; finish cooking shortly before serving.

Storage

Cool promptly, cover and refrigerate up to 2 days; rewarm gently without boiling.

Food safety

Contains alcohol. Label clearly and serve only to adults; keep away from open flames while heating.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare suitable components ahead and refrigerate them promptly.

How should I store swedish glögg (spiced mulled wine)?

Cool promptly, cover and refrigerate up to 2 days; rewarm gently without boiling.

Serve warm and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

Swedish Glögg (Spiced Mulled Wine)