The word hygge originally stems from a Norwegian word meaning “well-being”. For most of us, well-being starts at home. The Danes love hanging out at home so much that they even have a name for it – hjemme hygge  (pronounced “yem hooga” and meaning hygge at home). Not surprisingly, hygge at home is about creating coziness. Don’t worry – you don’t have to spend a fortune on fancy Danish furniture! Even in a big house with white walls, it’s possible to bring in hygge by using what you have to create zones within the larger spaces. If you’d like to inject some Danish spirit into your home, start with: 

Lighting 

This is hygge 101. There can be no ambiance without the appropriate lighting. Change your bulbs from bright white lamps to soft, yellow light (energy-saving, of course!). Next, invest in candles – and lots of them. You can even try out different scents for different rooms. Ambient lighting is known to be soothing after a long day in an overstimulating, always-on world. 

Fireplace

The epitome of cozy is a log fireplace on a cool eve. 30% of Danes have fireplaces and spend copious amounts of time in front of it. If you have the luxury of a fireplace, buy some firewood in bulk, grab a glass of wine, and indulge in a good book. If you don’t have a fireplace, it’s a great excuse to spend more time visiting friends or treat yourself to a gas heater which can also do the trick. 

Hyggekrog

This Danish delight is what we would call a nook in English. It’s a place to be comfy and where hours can pass without you noticing. The easiest way to create your nook is by choosing a small space (preferably by a window) and layering it with pillows, string lights, and blankets. The final touch, lest we forget, is our 2017 Napa Valley Cabernet Franc. With its toasty vanilla and cocoa powder finish, it will make your nook moments that much more delightful.

One of the most delicious ways to achieve hygge  is through food. Think creamy pasta, freshly-popped popcorn, or a bowl of hot noodle soup. The hygge way is all about being kind to yourself and treating yourself to some indulgent delights. The good news is that wine also rates high on the hygge scale, and you should consume them all regularly (and in moderation) for optimal results. Treat yourself to these super hygge-friendly Sequoia Grove wine and food pairings below: 

Short Rib Chili

Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of chili – especially if you add slow-cooked short rib into the mix! We’ve matched the smoky paprika flavors of the chili with our smoky 2016 Napa Valley Syrah. The acidity of the tomatoes and lime in the chili also ignites the deep, concentrated fruit tones in the wine. Cook this meal without rush and take the time to relish in the process.  Find the recipe here.

Vegetable Bolognese on Polenta

There is a lot you can do in the 2 hours and 45 minutes it takes to cook this hygge delight. Call your partner or friends into the kitchen and catch up while they help. Take slow sips of your wine. Listen to the rain outside, your favorite album, or an audiobook. What makes this food and wine pairing so great are the hidden layers of flavor that you discover with every mouthful. The mushrooms, eggplant, and herbs perfectly complement the earthy undertones of our 2015 Tonella Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. The sweet carrots and tomatoes paired with the salty capers bring out the rich, fruity flavors of the wine. When you’re ready, dig into the recipe here.

We live busy lives. Deadlines, phone screens, and responsibilities keep us preoccupied and away from connecting with our loved ones. That’s where the power of hygge comes in. Hygge brings a pause to our daily lives. It’s about being present, being grateful, and fostering togetherness. Time spent with friends and family makes us happy (and who doesn’t want to be happy?). After all, together is the best place to be. Embrace the Danish way of living with these four simple ideas: 

Hygge and Chill

TV-time doesn’t have to be impersonal. Cuddling up with your partner or having a friends’ movie night can bring us closer together. Snack on a charcuterie board, sip on some Sequoia Grove wine and sit back. It’s life’s little pleasures that make it all worth it. 

Cook, Together

It’s widely known that food brings people together. Make mealtimes less habitual and more intentional by inviting people into the kitchen. Slice, dice, and stir your way to quality time.

Cuddle your Pets

Hyggelige connections do not just have to be between humans. If you have the privilege of having an animal in your home, give them an extra squeeze tonight or brush their hair. It’s said that cuddling your pet releases oxytocin, the love hormone. 

Start a New Tradition

Making memories with loved ones strengthens our bonds. Plan a game night every month, organize a wine tasting club,  or feast on Sunday lunches together. 

We hope our hygge tips and tricks make the cooler days of spring a little cozier. Ordering Sequoia Grove wines online means you won’t even have to leave your newly-created hygge haven. Cheers to that.