How to Make the Authentic Finnish Long Drink at Home

Have you ever sipped on a cocktail so refreshingly crisp that it transported you straight to the dreamy Nordic landscapes? If not, it's high time you met the Finnish Long Drink—a delightful concoction with roots deep in Finnish history and perfect for those wanting to explore international cocktails. So, grab your cocktail shaker and let's get started on this bubbly adventure!

A Brief History of the Finnish Long Drink

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a quick peek into its origins. The Finnish Long Drink, or “Lonkero” as it’s affectionately called in Finland, was first introduced during the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. It was created to quench the thirsts of tourists, and Finns loved it so much that it became a beloved staple. Its traditional recipe combines gin and grapefruit soda, forming a refreshingly unique blend that’s both sweet and tangy.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 50 ml gin (a good-quality dry gin works best)
• 150 ml grapefruit soda (try to find one with a natural flavor for authenticity)
• Ice cubes
• A slice of fresh grapefruit (for garnish)
• A sprig of mint (optional, but adds a fresh aroma)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Finnish Long Drink

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

First things first, round up all your ingredients and tools. You don’t need anything fancy—just a tall glass, a stirrer (or spoon if you want to keep it humble), and a colorful straw to sip in style.

Step 2: Chill Your Glass

To ensure your Long Drink remains as refreshing as a Finnish sauna break, put your glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass will keep your cocktail cool longer.

Step 3: Mix the Magic

1. Ice, Ice Baby: Fill your chilled glass with ice cubes to the brim. The more, the merrier!
2. Gin Time: Pour 50 ml of gin over the ice. Let it mix and mingle with the chilling cubes.
3. Add the Zing: Pour 150 ml of grapefruit soda over the gin, watching the bubbles fizz up joyfully.
4. Give it a Swirl: Gently stir the mixture to combine all the flavors without losing the fizzy fun.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finish off your Long Drink masterpiece by garnishing with a slice of fresh grapefruit. For extra pizzazz, add a mint sprig. Now, sip and savor!

Why You'll Love Exploring Finnish Culture through this Drink

The Finnish Long Drink is more than just a cocktail—it’s a cultural experience in a glass. Discovering international cocktails like this one opens a window to a different part of the world. Each sip tells a story of Finnish innovation and simplicity, perfect for cocktail enthusiasts seeking to enrich their repertoire.

And there you have it! Making the Finnish Long Drink at home is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. Whether hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, it’s the perfect way to bring a slice of Finland into your life. Cheers, or as they say in Finland, “Kippis!”