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. 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. Until Finland joined the European Union in 1995, the production of long drink was strictly controlled by the government. 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.

Photos of Finnish Long Drink

• It was necessary to develop a drink that was refreshing and could be served for large crowds.
• 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 cuisine.
• The 2000s saw the reintroduction of the brandy long drink, now manufactured by Laitilan Wirvoitusjuomatehdas.
• These variations provide additional options for consumers seeking a great taste experience.
• Finns drink lonkero especially when they go to the sauna.

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. 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.

Hartwall Original Long Drink – Gin & Cranberry 5.5% 24x330ml

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.

Finnish long drink

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. The story of Lonkero dates back to the summer of 1952 when Finland hosted the Summer Olympic Games in Helsinki.

Glasgow Cocktail Week Launches

• Finnish long drink called lonkero is made from grapefruit soft drink and gin.
• I want to share Scandinavian and Nordic recipes for you who want to connect with your Nordic heritage and learn to make delicious, simple Scandinavian food and learn about the food culture.
• Lonkero is one of the Finnish people’s most popular drinks, it has been the most sold drink in Alko for several years.
• Also, it is perfect in the summer as a refreshing drink.
• Saunas are an integral part of Finnish life, and combining a refreshing Lonkero with a sauna session is a cherished tradition.
• Its growth can be attributed to its unique flavor, strong cultural identity and the increasing global interest in exploring traditional and authentic beverages.
• The one in the picture is something cheap we bought in Tallinn.

Finns drink lonkero especially when they go to the sauna. Also, it is perfect in the summer as a refreshing drink. It is a crisp & zingy drink combining gin, grapefruit, soda, lime, pine & botanicals. We’re fans of this Finnish Long Drink with cranberry juice for extra tartness. Long drink light version is sweetened with aspartame, acesulfame, or stevia. Light or zero version has fever calories, 33 in 100 ml, (3,4oz).

A long drink will have a tall glass full of mixer, in contrast to a short drink, or shooter, which has less mixer, or none. Short drinks are generally stronger since both types tend to contain the same amount of alcohol. Many zero version long drinks have 0 carbs so they are ok to drink even if you are dieting or are on keto. When making your own light version buy grapefruit soda that is sugar-free.
To meet the increased demand for refreshing drinks, the Finnish government decided to create a ready-to-drink cocktail that combined gin with citrus flavors. The aim was to offer a beverage that was easy to consume, especially in outdoor settings, and that would quench the lonkero thirst of athletes and spectators alike. If you like it sweeter, add more grapefruit soda and less juice. White grapefruit juice can be difficult to find, so I often use Ruby Red juice. Other times, I just use gin and grapefruit soda to keep things simple. Lonkero is a Finnish word given to what are known as ‘long drinks’.

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. 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 cuisine.