It’s traditionally served in a tall (“long”) glass, hence the name. I find that Fresca and white grapefruit juice give this drink the most authentic flavor, but ruby red grapefruit juice can be used for a sweeter, less tart flavor. When seeking Lonkero or Lonkero-inspired beverages in the U.S., it’s advisable to check local liquor stores, specialty beverage shops, or online retailers that carry a diverse range of alcoholic beverages. Additionally, you may find bars and restaurants that offer Lonkero as a part of their cocktail menu, particularly those with a focus on international or Scandinavian lonkero cuisine. Lonkero has become an integral part of Finnish drinking culture.
Hartwall Original Long Drink Blueberry 5,5% 24x33cl
- Short drinks are generally stronger since both types tend to contain the same amount of alcohol.
- It is often seen as a refreshing alternative to beer or traditional mixed drinks.
- When making your own light version buy grapefruit soda that is sugar-free.
- You can decorate your glass with a slice of lemon, grapefruit, orange, or lime.
- In Finland, you can buy lonkero in all supermarkets and Alko.
- A classic example of the highball is the Scotch and soda.
- Lonkero is one of the Finnish people’s most popular drinks, it has been the most sold drink in Alko for several years.
Lonkero, also known as the Finnish Long Drink, has gained popularity as a refreshing and distinctive alcoholic beverage. Originating from Finland, this unique drink has a fascinating history and an intriguing flavor profile that has captivated locals and intrigued international visitors. In this article, we delve into the origins, ingredients and cultural significance of Lonkero, providing an in-depth exploration of this iconic Finnish beverage. Until Finland joined the European Union in 1995, the production of long drink was strictly controlled by the government.
What does Finnish long drink taste like?
In Finland, the legal drinking age is 18, and consuming alcohol is a common social activity among adults. Lonkero’s popularity can be attributed to its easy-drinking nature, making it a favorite choice for both casual and festive occasions. It is often seen as a refreshing alternative to beer or traditional mixed drinks.
- Until Finland joined the European Union in 1995, the production of long drink was strictly controlled by the government.
- The citrus tones are though not bitter but sweet since the drink has quite high sugar content.
- Other times, I just use gin and grapefruit soda to keep things simple.
- White grapefruit juice can be difficult to find, so I often use Ruby Red juice.
- Lonkero is served as a 330 ml or 500 ml drink with lots of ice.
- It’s traditionally served in a tall (“long”) glass, hence the name.
Other Finnish drinks
After joining the EU the government was no longer allowed to control the production, and this led to the birth of several long drink brands by different companies. Some experimented with using lemon, orange or other flavors instead of grapefruit. Others started manufacturing mild long drinks based on fermentation rather than on adding spirits. The same composition can be achieved by diluting a 10% cider into 5% with water and gin and grapefruit flavors, and the 5.5% product can be sold in grocery stores. The 2000s saw the reintroduction of the brandy long drink, now manufactured by Laitilan Wirvoitusjuomatehdas.
Hartwall Original Long Drink Red Grapefruit 5,5% 24x33cl
With the Olympic Games being held in Helsinki, there would be an influx of thirsty athletes and visitors. Alko created two long drinks which were pre-mixed and bottled, ready-to-consume. One was a brandy and fruit flavour and the second one was made with gin and grapefruit. In recent years, many different variations of Lonkero have emerged, featuring distinct flavors such as cranberry, lime or other citrus fruits. These variations provide additional options for consumers seeking a great taste experience. All of these beverages fall under the category of “low-calorie” as well, so if you’re keeping an eye on your waistline, Lonkero fits the bill.
Lonkero has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, both domestically and internationally. It is now readily available in Finnish supermarkets, bars, and restaurants, as well as being exported to various countries around the globe. Its growth can be attributed to its unique flavor, strong cultural identity and the increasing global interest in exploring traditional and authentic beverages.
When making your own light version buy grapefruit soda that is sugar-free. When you order a long drink in Finland it is not decorated. Lonkero is served as a 330 ml or 500 ml drink with lots of ice. You can decorate your glass with a slice of lemon, grapefruit, orange, or lime.
The first lonkeros were served in the Olympic Games in Helsinki in 1952. It was necessary to develop a drink that was refreshing and could be served for large crowds. The company Hartwall took this task and made a gin-grapefruit soda drink to serve guests. Finnish long drink called lonkero is made from grapefruit soft drink and gin.
One cannot discuss Lonkero without mentioning its connection to Finnish sauna culture. Saunas are an integral part of Finnish life, and combining a refreshing Lonkero with a sauna session is a cherished tradition. The combination of the warm sauna and the cooling, citrusy Lonkero creates a unique sensory experience, complementing the relaxation and rejuvenation of the sauna itself. A simple style of long drink is the highball, a cocktail composed of one liquor and one mixer (excluding garnish or ice).
Lonkero is a Finnish word given to what are known as ‘long drinks’. These are drinks which are served in a tall glass and are usually spirits such as vodka and gin mixed with soft drinks, usually grapefruit soda. Lonkero’s rise in popularity has had a significant impact on the beverage industry in Finland. It has not only influenced the ready-to-drink market but has also inspired other countries to create their own versions of long drinks. The success of Lonkero has demonstrated the appeal of a pre-mixed canned cocktail, leading to the development of similar products worldwide following the first long drinks being served at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. The story of Lonkero dates back to the summer of 1952 when Finland hosted the Summer Olympic Games in Helsinki.