Best Scandinavian Beverage Types
This beer style evolved from the British porter, and it was partially influenced by imperial stouts. The beers that fall under this category will typically have high alcohol content, usually between 5.5 and 9.5% ABV, while their color ranges from mahogany red to dark brown.
They are full-bodied and smooth brews with typical malt flavors that are usually complemented by aromas of toast, caramel, licorice, dried fruit, chocolate, and coffee. Baltic porter first appeared when stronger and hoppier versions of British porter were sent to Russia.
THE BEST Baltic Porter Ales
Julmust is a very popular Swedish soft drink that is consumed at Christmas time. This dark drink is often described as a mixture of cola and root beer, while its flavor is typically sweeter than most sodas. The name julmust translates to Christmas juice or Christmas must (not yet fermented fruit juice).
However, there is no actual must in julmust. It was first created by Harry Roberts as a non-alcoholic alternative to beer and porter, which were traditionally consumed during winter holidays in Sweden. Påskmust is the Easter version of the drink.
Cocio is a classic Danish chocolate milk that has been produced since 1951 and was originally invented by Anker Pallesen in Esbjerg. The drink combines fresh milk from Danish farmers, sugar, and only the best African cocoa, while the producers claim that the unique heating process gives the milk the typical, lightly caramelized flavor.
The drink is available in classic and dark version, as well as the lighter Cocio One and Cocio Energy. Though it is available in cans, the trademark glass bottle is still a firm favorite, while the preferred pairing option is the traditional pølser hot dog.
Glögg is a favorite winter drink in Scandinavia. In its basic form, this version of mulled wine combines red wine, sugar, and various spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, and orange zest. Typically served warm, glögg also often includes a splash of distilled spirit such as vodka, brandy, sherry, port, or akvavit.
Alcohol-free variations also exist, while the red wine base is sometimes replaced with white wine, fruit juices, or cider. Although it was initially associated with higher social classes and nobility, in the 1900s, it became a more common drink. In Sweden and Finland (glögi), it also includes raisins and almonds, which are sometimes strained and served on the side.
Farmhouse ale is best described as an ancient beer style that was brewed by European farmers who used their grains and hops. These brews were made with techniques that are not used in modern brewing, and because they were brewed in various European regions, the examples are incredibly versatile and include a variety of different sub-styles that are usually very region-specific.
Farmhouse ales were made in places where people cultivated grains, and in the early 20th century, it was a prevalent style throughout northern Europe. These beers were a part of everyday life. In some places, they were prepared and enjoyed on special occasions, and in the regions where grains were plentiful, they were enjoyed on a daily basis.
VARIATIONS OF Farmhouse ale
THE BEST Farmhouse ale Ales
Pucko is a Swedish drink made with three basic ingredients: milk, chocolate, and sugar. It comes in an iconic glass bottle that was created by Arla Foods, a company which released it in 1954. Today, it is produced by a Danish company named Cocio.
Besides the glass bottle, Pucko is also sold in cartons. In Sweden, the drink is most often associated with hot dog vendors, who typically sell it as an accompaniment to hot dogs.
Swedish punsch is an arrack-based liqueur that was first introduced in the 18th century when the Swedish East India Company started importing Batavian arrack from Java. In its early days, punsch was enjoyed warm and prepared just before serving, by heating it and then adding spices and wine.
The first bottled version appeared in 1845 and was manufactured by J. Cederlunds Söner, and was soon followed by other producers. Most punsch brands are now created with a combination of arrack, alcohol, water, and spices, and are best served neat and chilled, in traditional punsch glasses, though Swedish tradition suggests that it can be enjoyed warm when paired with traditional pea soup.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Söderblandning is a tea blend invented in Sweden. It is based on black tea blended with tropical fruit and flowers. The blend was invented in Södermalm, Stockholm—hence the name. It remains one of the most popular teas in Sweden.
The exact ingredients are unfamiliar, and there are some differences among brands, but the base is made with Ceylon and Chinese black tea, while the additions may include citrus fruit and various flowers. Söderblandning was allegedly a lucky invention at the Tea Center in Stockholm.
Norwegian farmhouse ale is an example of a traditional farmhouse ale—a versatile style brewed by European farmers. These beers were designed for local consumption. In Norway, they are known as maltøl, which would literally translate as malt beer.
Norwegian brewing tradition is ancient, and though it has changed over time, it retained some of its unique characteristics. The entire category of farmhouse ales is incredibly versatile. The character depends on the region, brewer’s preferences, and style.
VARIATIONS OF Maltøl
Akvavit is a Scandinavian spirit that is usually distilled from grains or potatoes. After distillation, it is infused with various botanicals, though the most common are caraway and dill. Other options may include fennel, coriander, cloves, or cumin.
The drink can vary in color, and its flavor profile can greatly differ depending on the age and the base ingredients. Danish and Swedish akvavit is typically clear and colorless, while the Norwegian version is sometimes aged in sherry casks, allowing it to attain golden-like color and slightly stronger flavor.
THE BEST Akvavit Spirits

Linie Aquavit
Lysholm Linie Double Cask Port
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2023, 2020, 2019

Linie Aquavit
Løiten Linie Aquavit
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020

Oss Craft Distillery
Bareksten Botanical Aquavit
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2019

Norden Spirits Distilling Co.
Kuriosa Kollektion American Brandy Cask Aquavit
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023

Best Scandinavian Beverage Producers
Hernö Gin Distillery is Sweden's first dedicated gin distillery, located in Dala, near Härnösand. Founded in 2011 by Jon Hillgren, it is renowned for its organic and sustainably crafted gins. Using traditional copper pot stills, Hernö combines high-quality botanicals like juniper, coriander, lemon peel, lingonberry, and birch leaves.
Their range includes award-winning expressions such as Hernö Dry Gin, Old Tom Gin, Navy Strength Gin, and Juniper Cask Gin. The distillery has earned numerous global accolades, including titles for the world's best gin. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and workshops on cocktail-making and gin crafting.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
BEST Hernö Gin Distillery Spirits
Oss Craft Distillery is a Norwegian distillery renowned for its high-quality craft spirits, blending traditional methods with modern innovation. Located in Blomsterdalen, near Bergen, it draws inspiration from Norway’s natural landscapes and folklore.
Its flagship product, Bareksten Botanical Gin, features over 20 botanicals, capturing the essence of Nordic forests with flavors like juniper, elderflower, and blueberries. Founded by Stig Bareksten, the distillery emphasizes authenticity and craftsmanship in every bottle.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

The Gin Masters - Gold
2022
BEST Oss Craft Distillery Spirits
Nykur Vodka is a premium organic vodka that harmoniously blends superior organic grains from Northern Italy with pristine volcanic mountain water sourced from the depths of the Kirvi range in the Faroe Islands. The brand draws inspiration from the Nykur, a mythical creature from Faroese folklore, often depicted as a shimmering grey horse emerging from lakes, symbolizing allure and mystery.
This cultural reference underscores Nykur Vodka's commitment to honoring heritage while delivering a product of exceptional purity and quality. The vodka is crafted using EU-organic certified ingredients, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.
AWARDS

SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2021

The Luxury Masters - Gold
2023
BEST Nykur Spirits Spirits
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Vodka Gold Trophy
2023
BEST Virtuous Spirits
Det Norske Brenneri, established in 2011, is one of Norway's leading producers of alcoholic beverages, based in Grimstad, in the Agder region. As the first private distillery to receive a license to produce spirits following the abolition of the state monopoly in 2005, the distillery is dedicated to preserving Norwegian artisanal traditions, producing in small batches to ensure the highest quality of its products.
Their range includes a variety of beverages, such as aquavit, gin, and whisky. Among their most renowned products is "Arvesølvet Aquavit," which features hand-picked berries and herbs from the Norwegian wilderness. Det Norske Brenneri has won numerous international awards for its products, underscoring their commitment to quality and authenticity.
AWARDS

Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2021

European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
BEST Det Norske Brenneri Spirits
Brennevinsgrova is a Norwegian distillery located in a valley on the outskirts of Sykkylven, surrounded by the Sunnmørsalpene mountains. It was founded by Harald Strømmegjerde in 2019 on his family farm, inspired by the local environment and traditions.
The distillery produces gin, aquavit, and whiskey, using exclusively local ingredients. Raspberries from Valldal, sugar kelp from Herøy, and glacial water contribute to the unique flavor of their beverages, offering an authentic taste of Sunnmøre.
Brennevinsgrova has received numerous awards for the quality of its products, including recognition for the best gin in Norway.
AWARDS

World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2024, 2022, 2021

European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
BEST Brennevinsgrova Spirits
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold
2023

Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2024
BEST Vreta Kloster Bryggeri Beers
AWARDS

Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022

The Gin Masters - Gold
2022

Bartender Spirits Awards - Gold
2022, 2021
BEST Berentsens Distillery Spirits
AWARDS

Barcelona Beer Challenge - Gold
2023, 2020
BEST Hjort Beer Beers
Best Scandinavian Beverages
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2017
Løiten Linie Aquavit is a renowned Norwegian spirit with a rich heritage, known for its distinctive flavor and traditional production process. Like other Linie Aquavits, Løiten Linie undergoes a unique maturation process where the spirit is aged in oak barrels that are shipped across the equator twice.
This journey, which allows the barrels to experience temperature changes and motion, imparts a depth of flavor and complexity to the spirit. The aquavit is flavored with a blend of spices, including caraway, fennel, and dill, giving it a balanced, smooth taste.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
Nykur Vodka is a premium organic vodka that harmoniously blends superior organic grains from Northern Italy with pristine volcanic mountain water sourced from the depths of the Kirvi range in the Faroe Islands. The brand draws inspiration from the Nykur, a mythical creature from Faroese folklore, often depicted as a shimmering grey horse emerging from lakes, symbolizing allure and mystery.
This cultural reference underscores Nykur Vodka's commitment to honoring heritage while delivering a product of exceptional purity and quality. The vodka is crafted using EU-organic certified ingredients, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.
AWARDS

SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2021

The Luxury Masters - Gold
2023
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2019

The Gin Masters - Master
2022

World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2021
Bareksten Botanical Aquavit is made from a potato-based spirit flavoured with classic aquavit botanicals such as cumin, fennel and aniseed. It is then rested for 24 months in ex-sherry Oloroso casks. The traditional drink aquavit is derived from the Latin aqua vitae, meaning water of life.
The first written mention of it in Norway dates back to 1531. The drink was used as a panacea for indigestion and was mainly served at Scandinavian celebrations and feasts.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
Lyng Norwegian Botanical Gin is a premium Norwegian gin produced by Det Norske Brenneri. Inspired by the resilient heather plant, known as "lyng" in Norwegian, this gin captures the essence of Norway's wild nature. It is crafted using 33 herbs, spices, and flowers, including heather blossom, coltsfoot, elderflower, birch leaves, roseroot, and angelica, all harvested from Norwegian mountains and forests.
Fresh Norwegian juniper berries also play a central role in its flavor profile.
AWARDS

Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022

European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
Bareksten Double Gin is a unique distillate that stands out for its quality and exclusive recipe. This gin is produced in Norway and is made through an artisanal distillation process using only the freshest and most natural ingredients. The blend of ingredients that make up this gin is perfectly balanced and consists of herbs, spices, flowers and citrus fruits.
Each component is carefully chosen and carefully crafted to ensure a perfect end result.
AWARDS

The Gin Masters - Master
2022

World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2021
AWARDS

World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022

World's Best London Dry Gin - Winner
2021
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
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