Explore Finland’s Unique Alcoholic Beverages: From Sahti to Salmiakki

Get to Know Finnish Traditional Drinks and Alcohol: An In-Depth Look into Finland’s Uniqueness in Beverage Culture

Finland, a country of peaceful lakes, infinite forests, and captivating northern lights, is also rich in a lively and interesting drinking culture. From ancient spirits to contemporary craft drinks, Finnish drinks mirror the nation’s strong traditions and natural beauty. Whether you are an adventurous traveler, a culture lover, or just a fan of sampling new drinks, discovering Finnish traditional drinks provides an interesting means to learn about the essence of this Nordic country.

We’ll explore the most iconic Finnish drinks, their cultural significance, and tips for enjoying them responsibly during your visit to Finland.

1. Salmiakki Koskenkorva: Finland’s Infamous Salty Licorice Liqueur

One of the most distinctive Finnish alcoholic drinks is Salmiakki Koskenkorva, a black, syrupy liqueur made with vodka and salty licorice (salmiakki). Loved and hated in equal measure, this drink is uniquely Finnish.

• Tasting Notes: Strong, salty, with a bitter licorice aftertaste.
• Best Served: In a chilled shot glass.
• Where to Try: At a Finnish bar, a local pub, or Alko shop.

Salmiakki has also become a cultural phenomenon—try it to know Finnish sense of humor and taste buds! 

2. Koskenkorva Vodka: Finland’s Pure Grain Spirit

Koskenkorva, commonly lovingly nicknamed “Kossu,” is Finland’s most renowned vodka. It’s produced using local barley and spring water, which makes it silky smooth with a clean taste.

• Alcohol Content: Generally 38%.
• Uses: Served neat, in a cocktail, or with soda.
• Fun Fact: Koskenkorva Vodka won several international awards for quality.

Whether you drink it over ice or incorporate it into traditional punch recipes, Koskenkorva is a household staple in Finnish homes and celebrations.

3. Sahti: Ancient Finnish Farmhouse Beer

Sahti is Finland’s oldest alcoholic drink, with brewing history spanning hundreds of years. This farmhouse beer is brewed with barley, rye, juniper branches, and typically has a yeasty, cloudy character.

• Tasting Notes: Sweet banana-like esters, low carbonation, very strong herbal flavors.
• Alcohol Content: Typically between 7–10%.
• Where to Try: Craft breweries, beer festivals, or rural Finnish farms.

Sahti is also an EU recognized traditional specialty guaranteed (TSG) and hence a cultural heritage drinks of Finland.

4. Lakka (Cloudberry Liqueur): A Sweet Nordic Delight

Lakka, or cloudberry liqueur, is a tasty beverage produced from Lapland’s and other northern regions’ golden cloudberries. A must-try for anyone who likes fruity liqueurs with a touch of the wild.

• Flavor Profile: Tart, sweet, earthy undertones.
• How to Enjoy: Slowly sipped, usually as an accompaniment to dessert or cheese.
• Perfect For: Post-dinner indulgence or as a special souvenir from Finland.

This vibrant amber liqueur is a stunning representation of Finland’s Arctic landscape.

5. Terva Snapsi (Tar Liqueur): A Forest Flavor

Terva Snapsi is perhaps the most exotic Finnish spirit, infused with tar that is distilled from pine. Although it may sound unusual, it is a local favorite, particularly in northern Finland.

• Tasting Notes: Smoky, woody, and slightly sweet.
• Best Paired With: Sauna sessions or traditional meat courses.
• Where to Buy: Specialty shops and Alko.

This is one of those “only in Finland” experiences that brave imbibers won’t want to miss.

6. Glogi: Finnish Mulled Wine for the Holidays

Glogi is Finland’s version of mulled wine, usually drunk in winter and particularly during Christmas.

• Ingredients: Red wine (or juice), spices such as cinnamon and cloves, almonds, and raisins.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Commonly found in kids’ and alcohol-avoiding versions.
• Best Enjoyed: At Christmas festivals or after a ski day.

Glogi unites people with its warmth, scent, and Christmas appeal.

7. Finnish Craft Beers and Brewing Scene

Finland’s craft beer scene has exploded over the last few years. From Helsinki to Lapland, microbreweries serve a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and creative Nordic brews made from local ingredients.

• Popular Breweries: Sori Brewing (Tallinn–Helsinki), Pyynikin Brewing Company, and Mallaskoski.
• Try At: Brewpubs, restaurants, or beer festivals like Helsinki Beer Festival.
• Travel Tip: Order seasonal beers—most of them utilize local berries, spruce tips, or rye.

The craft beer culture offers you a contemporary flavor of Finnish ingenuity in brewing.

8. Paihde Culture: Understanding Drinking in Finland

Although Finland has a solid alcohol culture, the nation also prioritizes sensible drinking.

• Alko Stores: The sole stores legally permitted to sell drinks with over 5.5% alcohol.
• Legal Drinking Age: 18 for wine and beer; 20 for harder spirits.
• Sauna & Spirits: A cultural combination—many Finns have a drink after a soothing sauna experience.

Respecting local traditions helps you appreciate Finland’s drinks respectfully and responsibly. 

9. Seasonal Drinking Customs in Finland

Finnish drinking customs differ throughout the year:

• Vappu (May Day): Look for sparkling wine, sima (a sweet mead-like beverage), and donuts.
• Midsummer (Juhannus): Barbecue, beer, and lake cocktails mark the occasion.
• Christmas: Glogi, beers with high strength, and Lakka are popular.
• Winter: Sahti and tar-flavored liquors are typical for warmth and comfort.

These celebrations show how deeply alcohol is embedded in Finnish seasonal and social life.

10. Travel Tips for Trying Finnish Alcohol

Before you immerse yourself in the drinking culture of Finland, following are some helpful tips:

• Carry ID: If you intend to purchase alcohol, always carry a valid photo ID.
• Public Drinking Legislation: Public consumption of alcohol is prohibited in most areas—spot the designated sites.
• Ask Locals: Don’t be afraid to ask bartenders or hosts for advice.
• Try Local Specialties: Every region of Finland has a local spin on drinks—ask questions and indulge!

Last Words: Enjoying Finland Through Its Traditional Beverages

Discovering Finnish traditional beverages and liquor is not merely a tasting experience—it’s an exploration of the nation’s history, environment, and customs. From the smoky enigma of Terva Snapsi to the soothing warmth of Glogi, each sip is a tale of Finland’s history and present. Whether you’re sipping cloudberry liqueur under the northern lights, sharing Sahti in a countryside festival, or toasting with friends in a Helsinki bar, Finnish drinks offer a flavorful way to connect with this beautiful Nordic nation.