Best Northern European Spirit/Liqueur Types
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.
Salmiakki Koskenkorva is a popular licorice-based Finnish liqueur with a thick and viscous texture. It is based on Koskenkorva Viina vodka and the salmiakki licorice extract. The drink was first introduced in the 1990s, and it quickly gained a huge following, especially among teenagers.
This dark liqueur has an intense licorice flavor reminiscent of aniseed. Although it is usually enjoyed as a shot, served neat or on the rocks, it can also work well as a cocktail ingredient. The drink is produced in Koskenkorva, and it is bottled at 32% ABV.
Jaloviina is a type of Finnish cut brandy, a type of brandy that has been cut with neutral grain spirit. This Finnish version is based on French brandy and the Finnish spirit. Jaloviina comes in several grades, usually differentiated by the number of stars.
One being the lowest, and three being the highest grade. Jaloviina is typically amber-colored and has a smooth flavor with a long, warming finish. The dink was introduced in 1932, following the end of prohibition in Finland. Jaloviina can be served neat or on the rocks, but it could also work well in mixed drinks.
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
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Linie Aquavit
Lysholm Linie Double Cask Port
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2019, 2020, 2023
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Linie Aquavit
Løiten Linie Aquavit
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
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Oss Craft Distillery
Bareksten Botanical Aquavit
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2019
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Norden Spirits Distilling Co.
Kuriosa Kollektion American Brandy Cask Aquavit
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023
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Koskenkorva is a clear Finnish spirit that is distilled from a combination of locally grown barley and unfiltered spring water. Often dubbed as vodka, the drink is produced with continuous distillation, which involves highly developed producing techniques that utilize 100% of the grain—none of it goes to waste.
The original version of this high-quality spirit is smooth, pure, neutral, and bright. Apart from its basic version, it also comes in several specialty varieties, including aged and flavored spirits. The drink is produced in Koskenkorva village, and the company which produces it operates in an entirely sustainable manner that focuses on the circular economy.
Brennivín is distilled from potato mash, and it is traditionally flavored with various herbs and spices, including caraway seeds, cumin, and angelica. Although the name Brennivín translates to burning wine, this strong spirit was nicknamed Svarti Dauði, meaning Black Death, presumably because the bottle once had a label depicting a black skull, while some claim the nickname originated due to the distinctive, sharp taste of the drink.
This Icelandic staple is best enjoyed well-chilled, served in a shot glass and paired with hákarl - cured shark flesh.
This amber Finnish liqueur is produced with cloudberries—wild orange berries found in the in the Northern hemisphere—that are macerated in a neutral spirit, while the final blend is then enriched with honey and spices such as cinnamon or cloves. Lakka is typically bittersweet and aromatic, with subtle berry notes, and an alcohol content that may vary depending on the label.
It is usually enjoyed neat, but it is also a great addition to various cocktails. The most popular brands include Chymos and Lapponia.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Cherry Heering is one of the most popular cherry liqueurs in the world. Created in 1818 by Peter F. Heering, it is also one of the first cherry liqueurs to appear on the market. The liqueur is made with Stevens cherries that are lightly crushed and then macerated in a neutral grain spirit, which is additionally flavored with botanicals.
The liqueur has an appealing garnet color, while the palate is dominated by cherry jam flavors, along with hints of spices and subtle tartness. The cherries are macerated with the stones, which imparts an almond-like note. This prized liqueur is still made with an old family recipe and is still produced in Copenhagen.
Best Northern European Spirit/Liqueur 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
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SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
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ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020
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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
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SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
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ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
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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
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SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2021
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The Luxury Masters - Gold
2023
BEST Nykur Spirits Spirits
AWARDS
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold outstanding
2020
BEST Teerenpeli Brewery & Distillery Spirits
AWARDS
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023
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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
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022
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ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2021
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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
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World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2024, 2022, 2021
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European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
BEST Brennevinsgrova Spirits
AWARDS
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022
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The Gin Masters - Gold
2022
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Gold
2022, 2021
BEST Berentsens Distillery Spirits
AWARDS
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The Rum & Cachaça Masters - Gold
2023
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World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022, 2020
BEST One Eyed Spirits Spirits
Best Northern European Spirits and Liqueurs
AWARDS
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ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
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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
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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
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SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2021
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The Luxury Masters - Gold
2023
AWARDS
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2019
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The Gin Masters - Master
2022
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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
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ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
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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
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Bartender Spirits Awards - Double Gold
2022
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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
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The Gin Masters - Master
2022
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World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2021
AWARDS
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World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022
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World's Best London Dry Gin - Winner
2021
AWARDS
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
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