Glogg Cocktail Recipe

Glogg Nutrition Facts

Calories:250

Fat:3g

Protein:1g

Carbohydrates:20g

Alcohol:10%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

Glogg, also known as mulled wine, has its origins in Scandinavia and has been enjoyed for centuries during the cold winter months. It is a warm, spiced beverage typically made with red wine, brandy, and various spices. It is often enjoyed during holiday gatherings and is especially popular during Christmas celebrations.

  • Glogg has been enjoyed since the 15th century
  • It is a traditional Scandinavian drink
  • It is often served during holiday gatherings and Christmas celebrations

How Glogg Tastes?

Glogg has a warm, spiced, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of red wine, brandy, and spices creates a rich and comforting flavor profile that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.

Interesting facts about Glogg

  • Glogg is sometimes served with raisins and almonds
  • The word 'glogg' comes from the Swedish word 'glödga', which means 'to heat'
  • In some Scandinavian countries, glogg is made with aquavit instead of brandy

Ingredients

  • Red wine: 750ml
  • Brandy: 250ml
  • Orange: 1
  • Cinnamon sticks: 2
  • Cardamom pods: 6
  • Cloves: 8
  • Star anise: 2
  • Brown sugar: 100g
  • Raisins: 50g
  • Almonds: 50g

Red Wine (750ml)

The base of our glogg, red wine provides a rich, fruity backdrop. It shouldn't overpower the spices, nor be too timid. Less wine, and it might be too spirit-forward; more wine, it could be too diluted.

Emma Rose

Brandy (250ml)

Brandy adds a kick and deepens flavor. Too much could make the glogg heavy and boozy; not enough, and you'll miss that warming sensation.

Alex Green

Orange (1)

The orange infuses citrus notes bringing brightness among the spices. Skip it, and the glogg could end up less complex.

Mary Mitkina

Cinnamon Sticks (2)

Cinnamon offers a familiar warmth. Too much can dominate, too little and you'll miss that holiday cheer.

Emma Rose

Cardamom Pods (6)

Cardamom provides an exotic, slightly sweet spice. Lack thereof might leave the glogg feeling one-dimensional.

Alex Green

Cloves (8)

Cloves add a punchy, aromatic quality. Overdo it, and it turns medicinal; skimp and it's lackluster.

Mary Mitkina

Star Anise (2)

Star anise introduces a licorice nuance. It's a background player, but without it, we're missing that snowy night subtlety.

Emma Rose

Brown Sugar (100g)

Brown sugar sweetens and gives a molasses depth. Balance is key; too much can oversweeten, too little and the spices might bite back.

Alex Green

Raisins (50g)

Raisins plump up and soak in the flavors to be delightful little booze carriers. If omitted, you'd lack the chewy texture contrast.

Mary Mitkina

Almonds (50g)

Almonds add a nutty crunch. They're the garnish that doubles as a snack, without which the experience isn't as layered.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Glogg Drink

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, brandy, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and star anise
  2. Heat the mixture over low heat, making sure not to let it boil
  3. Once the mixture is warm, add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved
  4. Continue to heat the mixture for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld
  5. Strain the mixture to remove the spices and orange slices
  6. Serve the glogg warm, garnished with raisins and almonds

Pro Tips

  • Do not boil the mixture. This will evaporate the alcohol and alter the taste.
  • Use a quality red wine that you enjoy drinking. The flavor of the wine will greatly influence the final taste of the glogg.
  • Allow the glogg to simmer for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  • Strain the mixture before serving to remove the spices and orange slices.

Perfect Pairings

Cheese & Charcuterie

Bold flavors in glogg, such as cinnamon and star anise, pair wonderfully with rich cheeses and salty meats.

Desserts

Glogg's sweet and spicy notes complement desserts like gingerbread or fruit pies.

Savory Snacks

Try it with roasted nuts or crispbread for a cozy, heartwarming combination.

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What you could change in Glogg

  • Brandy: Can be substituted with aquavit or vodka.
  • Red wine: A full-bodied white wine can be used for a lighter version.
  • Brown sugar: Can be replaced with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
  • Spices: Feel free to experiment with other warming spices like nutmeg or allspice.

Explore all drinks starting with G here

And of course - twists🍹

Cherry Glogg

Replace half the red wine with cherry juice for a fruitier profile. You'll get a sweeter, tangy edge. Warm this blend with a cinnamon stick and add a dash of chocolate bitters for a dessert-like experience.

White Glogg

Switch to white wine and pear brandy. Infuse with a vanilla pod and white peppercorns for a lighter, yet still spicy, take on glogg. Serve with a slice of dried pear. This twist offers a sophisticated, wintry alternative.

Firelit Glogg

Add a small amount of chili and a shot of espresso. The heat from the chili and the coffee's richness will provide an energizing kick, perfect for long winter nights. Top with a cinnamon-dusted orange wheel for an elegant garnish.

In case you forgot basics how to make Glogg

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Glogg

What is the best time to consume Glogg?

Traditionally, Glogg is a winter drink. It is best enjoyed during cold days or in evenings for its warming effect. However, you can enjoy it any time you want a comforting, spiced beverage.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of Glogg?

Yes, non-alcoholic versions of Glogg do exist and are quite popular. Instead of red wine and brandy, grape juice or a non-alcoholic red wine can be used.

Do I have to serve Glogg immediately after preparing?

While Glogg is typically served hot immediately after preparation, it can also be allowed to cool and then reheated when ready to serve. In fact, some people believe that Glogg tastes better when allowed to sit for a few hours or even overnight, as it allows the flavors to meld together more fully.

Can I change the fruit in the recipe?

Yes, you can tweak the recipe according to your taste preference. Some people use apple or pear in place of or in addition to orange. The important thing is to keep the overall balance of flavors.

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