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Imagine this: It’s summertime in Finland. The days are long, the nights are short, and people soak up every bit of sunshine. Whether at a lakeside cabin or strolling through Helsinki’s charming harbor, there’s one drink you’re bound to see in hand—the Finnish Long Drink, or "Lonkero."
This ultra-refreshing cocktail is a mix of gin and grapefruit soda, served in a tall, ice-filled glass. It’s crisp, slightly sweet, and effortlessly drinkable—a perfect companion for warm evenings by the water or casual bar-hopping in the city. If you’ve ever sipped a gin and tonic, vodka soda, or Paloma, you’ve already had a taste of the long drink concept.
The Unexpected Olympic Origins
Though it might feel like a trendy new find, the Finnish Long Drink has been a national favorite for over 70 years. It all started in 1952, when Helsinki hosted the Summer Olympics. Finland, still recovering from World War II, needed a fast, easy way to serve drinks to thousands of visitors. The solution? A pre-mixed cocktail that bartenders could pour instantly—a gin-based grapefruit soda mix that became an instant hit.
The drink was so popular that local beverage company Hartwall kept producing it long after the Olympics ended. By the late ‘50s, it was one of the top-selling drinks in Finland. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find it everywhere—from bars serving it on draft to cans flying off store shelves.
The Finnish Long Drink Goes Global
For decades, the long drink was Finland’s best-kept secret. But in 2018, a group of Finnish entrepreneurs decided to introduce it to the U.S. market. They launched The Finnish Long Drink, a ready-to-drink version that quickly became the fastest-growing spirits brand in America. Now available in flavors like cranberry and peach, it’s an easy, no-fuss cocktail for any occasion.
How to Make a Finnish Long Drink at Home
Want to mix up your own version? It’s as simple as this:
2 oz gin
4-6 oz grapefruit soda (or fresh grapefruit juice + sparkling water)
Lots of ice
Optional: A splash of Prosecco for extra fizz
Serve it in a tall glass (hence the name "long drink"), garnish with a grapefruit slice, and enjoy!
From Olympic history to modern-day parties, the Finnish Long Drink proves that sometimes, the simplest cocktails are the most timeless. Cheers— or as the Finns say, "Kippis!"
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