The Refreshing Finnish Long Drink

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.

Hartwall Original Long Drink Brandy Black Label 7,5% 33cl x 24 tölkkiä

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.

• As a symbol of Finnish identity, it continues to thrive, inspiring new variations and contributing to the ever-evolving beverage industry.
• These variations provide additional options for consumers seeking a great taste experience.
• Its growth can be attributed to its unique flavor, strong cultural identity and the increasing global interest in exploring traditional and authentic beverages.
• Lonkero is a sweet drink that has a taste of gin and grapefruit.
• In this article, we delve into the origins, ingredients and cultural significance of Lonkero, providing an in-depth exploration of this iconic Finnish beverage.
• Light or zero version has fever calories, 33 in 100 ml, (3,4oz).
• In recent years, many different variations of Lonkero have emerged, featuring distinct flavors such as cranberry, lime or other citrus fruits.

Event Preview: Gin tasting and lunch at The Honours, Glasgow

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 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.
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.

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• This drink was so popular that the production continued even after the Olympic Games.
• The first lonkeros were served in the Olympic Games in Helsinki in 1952.
• Finland once had prohibition which was relaxed in 1932 with the creation of state company called Alko, where you could buy alcohol.
• Did you know this drink dates back to the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki?
• Lonkero has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, both domestically and internationally.
• 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.

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.

What does Finnish long drink taste like?

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).

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).

OLVI lonkero

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 cuisine. Lonkero has become an integral part of Finnish drinking culture.
We love Bombay sapphire and Beefeater for the long drink. lonkero The one in the picture is something cheap we bought in Tallinn. The gin does affect the taste of this drink, and also the amount of gin you use.