We Love This: Alcohol-free drinks from Scandinavia
By Signe Hansen
Why can’t an alcohol-free gin be called gin? Simple: without alcohol, it legally loses the title. The same goes for whisky, rum, and everything else that normally warms Scandinavian hearts during the long, dark winters. Still, the region has fully embraced the rise of alcohol-free alternatives – and today some of the world’s most flavourful, award-winning ‘non-alcoholic alcohol’ comes from Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Perfect for enjoying Dry January…without actually going dry.
Barreled Oak by Gnista Spirits
Swedish producer Gnista Spirits offers a bold whisky-inspired alternative with Barreled Oak, delivering smoky depth, warm spice and a satisfying oak finish. Crafted in Sweden using gastronomy and barrel-ageing techniques, it’s supreme neat, over ice or in a zero-proof cocktail. Ideal for whisky lovers who crave flavour, not foggy mornings.
SEK 229
Botanicals by Far & Søn
Danish producer Far & Søn turns alcohol-free celebration into an art form with Botanicals, a fermented Champagne alternative made with lemongrass, kaffir lime and herbs. Crisp, aromatic and grown-up, it uses Champagne-style fermentation to create proper complexity without the regret. Organic, vegan and ideal for guests who want “just a little fizz” – minus the alcohol.
From DKK 129
London Botanical Spirit by ISH Spirits
ISH Spirits, one of Denmark’s leaders in mindful drinking, recreates classic gin character with juniper, coriander and Seville orange – along with a clever chilli-seed distillate for warmth. Designed for mixing, this Danish spirit makes a remarkably convincing alcohol-free G&T. Great for cocktail lovers who like their drinks botanical, bright and pleasantly responsible.
DKK 119
SKOG by Villbrygg
Norwegian producer Villbrygg captures the essence of deep Nordic woodland in SKOG, an alcohol-free drink built on wild berries, spruce shoots and herbal notes. Naturally fermented and beautifully balanced, it tastes like a walk through a Norwegian forest translated into a dinner-friendly drink. Earthy, crisp and quietly complex, SKOG is ideal for those who want something refined, food-pairing and unmistakably Nordic – without alcohol.
From NOK 159
Uzumé by Muri
Created in Copenhagen by Danish producer Muri together with 12-Michelin-star chef Anne-Sophie Pic, Uzumé is a sparkling rosé alternative built from fermented strawberries, tomato, smoked vanilla and whey. Creamy, fruity and wonderfully surprising, it’s both nostalgic and avant-garde. Danish creativity in a glass – An excellent choice for guests who enjoy asking; “Wait…what is this?”
DKK 229
LYSERØD by Copenhagen Sparkling Tea Company
Denmark’s Copenhagen Sparkling Tea Company blends Oolong, Silver Needle and hibiscus into LYSERØD, a sparkling dry, pink rosé alternative that tastes as stylish as it looks. With notes of berries and apple, it delivers refreshing Nordic elegance without sweetness. Magnificient with oysters or sunshine, it’s a favourite among Danes who enjoy celebrating without sacrificing their early-morning clarity.
DKK 149
ARENSBAK Red by Arensbak
ARENSBAK Red is the moody Scandinavian cousin of red wine – deep, earthy and full of personality. Built on kombucha, black tea, chokeberries and even a whisper of mushrooms, it’s complex enough to impress even the most sceptical wine-lover. Oak ageing gives it proper tannins and a long finish. Superb with steak or creamy mushroom dishes…or for pretending you’re drinking wine while secretly behaving yourself.
DKK 149
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