Swedish Christmas Soda

Perhaps it’s not surprising that a beverage called Scandinavian Julmust (pronounced yool-moost) doesn’t exactly fly off U.S. shelves. But Grandpa Lundquist Christmas Soda? Now we’re talking.

In the fall, the Chicago Importing Company relaunched this seasonal soft drink under the new name in hopes of appealing to more American consumers. The specialty soda has a long and successful history in Sweden. Traditionally sold and served only during the holidays, Julmust has been a favorite among adults and kids since its creation in 1910. Rumor has it that kids are so enamored of it that they hoard and stash away the drink to be enjoyed later in the year. Vicki Mirabile, marketing manager for the soda’s distributor Chicago Importing Company, says it consistently outsells Coca-Cola during the holiday season.

The caffeine-free soda, packaged in 12-ounce bottles and sold in packs of four with a festively designed label, is slightly different from typical American cola. It’s made with 100 percent cane sugar, and its slightly less sweet flavor is the result of natural hops and malt produced from barley.

Another Scandinavian holiday favorite is the soda’s sister beverage, Grandpa Lundquist Glögg. Spiced with cloves, cardamom and citrus, Glögg is a “warming beverage,” served at family gatherings on cold winter evenings. The Swedes brew it at home using recipes that have been passed down through generations, and typically add a heaping of cheap wine. Grandpa Lundquist’s nonalcoholic ready-to-pour version, also produced and bottled in Sweden, can be enjoyed as is or spiked with a splash of port.

With or without the potable, Glögg is best enjoyed warm. Mirabile recommends serving it in small glasses—it’s meant to be sipped, not chugged. She adds that traditionalists sprinkle a few raisins and almonds in the bottom of the glass; when you finish your drink, you have a tasty little something to snack on.

Grandpa Lundquist Christmas Soda and Glögg are sold at specialty markets throughout the U.S., starting at $7.95 for a 4-pack of Christmas Soda and $9.99 for the 26.4-ounce Glögg.—Kara Mayer Robinson

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