Norway, with its rich culture and traditions, offers a unique variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Here’s a comprehensive list that covers the spectrum of Norwegian beverages, showcasing the diversity and uniqueness of the country’s drink culture. Whether you’re exploring the spirits rooted in centuries-old traditions or savoring the innovative cocktails, brews or non-alcoholic options, Norway’s beverage scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences.
1.) Spirits from Norway
1.1.) Norwegian Liquor
1. Akevitt (Aquavit)
- Traditional caraway spirit
Akevitt, or Aquavit, is a quintessential Norwegian spirit known for its distinct caraway flavor. Originating from Norway, this clear to pale-yellow liquor is often aged in oak barrels, which imparts a smooth complexity. Celebrated in traditional Norwegian festivities, Akevitt is a cultural staple, served neat and often enjoyed during festive gatherings, particularly Christmas.
2. Gamal Akevitt (Aged Aquavit)
- Oak-aged caraway liquor
Gamal Akevitt, translating to “Aged Aquavit,” elevates the traditional Aquavit experience by aging in oak barrels. This process enhances the spirit’s depth, introducing subtle notes of vanilla and wood alongside the classic caraway and anise flavors. Gamal Akevitt is a testament to the Norwegian tradition of patience and craftsmanship in distilling, making it a sought-after variety for connoisseurs.
3. Karvebrennevin (Caraway Spirit)
- Caraway-flavored Norwegian spirit
Karvebrennevin, directly translating to “Caraway Spirit,” is a traditional Norwegian liquor that showcases the aromatic caraway seed. This spirit is celebrated for its digestive properties and is commonly served alongside rich, hearty Norwegian meals. Its warm, earthy flavor makes it a comforting sipper during the cold Nordic months.
4. Hjemmebrent (Home Distilled Spirit)
- Norwegian moonshine
Hjemmebrent, or “Home Distilled Spirit,” is Norway’s answer to moonshine. This potent, often homemade spirit carries a rebellious spirit, rooted in rural Norwegian traditions. While its legality varies, the craft of making Hjemmebrent is a cherished skill, leading to a wide range of flavors and strengths, reflecting the individuality of its creators.
5. Norsk Gin (Norwegian Gin)
- Botanical-infused spirit
Norsk Gin stands out in the world of gins for its unique incorporation of Norwegian botanicals, such as Arctic berries and mountain herbs. These locally sourced ingredients imbue the gin with a distinctive, clean flavor profile, reflective of Norway’s pristine natural landscapes. Norwegian Gin is not just a spirit; it’s an aromatic journey through the Nordic wilderness.
6. Norsk Single Malt Whisky (Norwegian Single Malt Whisky)
- Smooth, peated Nordic whisky
Norsk Single Malt Whisky is a relatively new entrant to the world of whiskies, offering a distinct Norwegian twist. Crafted using pure Norwegian water and often incorporating local peat and barley, this whisky is known for its smoothness and subtle smoky notes. As Norwegian distilleries gain recognition, Norsk Single Malt Whisky is becoming a sought-after spirit for whisky enthusiasts looking for something uniquely Nordic.
1.2.) Norwegian Liqueurs
7. Multebærlikør (Cloudberry Liqueur)
- Arctic berry-infused liqueur
Multebærlikør, or Cloudberry Liqueur, captures the essence of the Arctic wilderness with its rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor profile derived from cloudberries. These rare berries, thriving in Norway’s cool climate, lend the liqueur an exquisite golden hue and a unique taste, making it a prized ingredient in cocktails and desserts, embodying the spirit of Norwegian nature.
8. Kreklinglikør (Crowberry Liqueur)
- Dark, tangy Arctic liqueur
Kreklinglikør, or Crowberry Liqueur, is a distinctive Norwegian spirit made from the tart crowberries found in the country’s mountainous regions. This dark, intriguing liqueur is noted for its tangy flavor and is often enjoyed as a digestif, offering a taste of Norway’s rugged, untamed landscapes.
9. Tyttebærlikør (Lingonberry Liqueur)
- Tart, forest berry liqueur
Tyttebærlikør, or Lingonberry Liqueur, is a celebration of the tart lingonberries that grow wild in Norwegian woods. This bright red liqueur is both sharp and sweet, making it a versatile companion to both cocktails and culinary creations, embodying the vibrant spirit of the Scandinavian forest.
10. Tindvedlikør (Sea Buckthorn Liqueur)
- Citrusy, coastal berry liqueur
Tindvedlikør, or Sea Buckthorn Liqueur, harnesses the zesty flavor of sea buckthorn berries from Norway’s coastal areas. With its lively citrus notes and deep orange color, this liqueur is a testament to the diversity of Norway’s natural bounty, ideal for innovative cocktails or as a vibrant aperitif.
11. Blåbærlikør (Blueberry Liqueur)
- Sweet, dark berry liqueur
Blåbærlikør, or Blueberry Liqueur, is crafted from the wild blueberries that dot the Norwegian landscape. This deep, purple-hued liqueur offers a sweet yet earthy flavor, reminiscent of Norwegian forests. It’s not just a liqueur but a celebration of Norway’s bountiful summers, perfect for enhancing cocktails or savoring as a post-dinner delight.
12. Bringebærlikør (Raspberry Liqueur)
- Rich, vibrant berry liqueur
Bringebærlikør, or Raspberry Liqueur, stands out for its vibrant color and lush, fruity essence, distilled from Norway’s sun-ripened raspberries. This liqueur combines sweetness with a hint of tartness, making it an excellent addition to desserts or as a base for refreshing cocktails, encapsulating the freshness of Norwegian raspberries.
13. Eplelikør (Apple Liqueur)
- Crisp, orchard-fresh liqueur
Eplelikør, or Apple Liqueur, celebrates Norway’s apple orchards with its crisp and refreshing taste. Infused with the juiciness of fresh apples, this liqueur offers a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity, perfect for sipping neat or mixing into autumn-inspired cocktails, reflecting the simplicity and purity of Norwegian nature.
14. Urtebrennevin (Herbal Liqueur)
- Aromatic blend of Nordic herbs
Urtebrennevin, or Herbal Liqueur, is a complex concoction of various Nordic herbs, each contributing to its rich, aromatic profile. This liqueur is a homage to Norway’s herbal tradition, offering a symphony of flavors that make it a perfect after-dinner sipper, reflecting the depth of Norwegian flora.
2.) Cocktails & Alcoholic Mixed Drinks from Norway
2.1.) Norwegian Cocktails
15. Nordisk Mule (Nordic Mule)
- Gin & ginger beer cocktail
The Nordisk Mule, a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, combines Norwegian gin with ginger beer and fresh lime juice, creating a refreshing and zesty cocktail. This drink is a nod to Norway’s innovative spirit, incorporating local ingredients for a unique, Nordic take on a beloved classic, perfect for sipping under the midnight sun.
16. Vikingfjord Martini
- Vodka-based classic cocktail
The Vikingfjord Martini is a crisp, clean cocktail that elevates the martini experience with smooth Norwegian vodka. This drink is a celebration of simplicity and purity, blending vodka with vermouth and a twist of lemon or an olive, reflecting the serene beauty of Norway’s fjords in every sip.
17. Arktisk Martini (Arctic Martini)
- Chilled, berry-infused martini
The Arktisk Martini offers a chilled, berry-infused twist to the classic martini, featuring Norwegian vodka and a splash of cloudberry or lingonberry liqueur. This cocktail captures the essence of the Arctic with its cool, crisp flavors, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated evening in the land of the northern lights.
18. Oslo Spritz
- Refreshing aperitif cocktail
The Oslo Spritz is Norway’s refreshing take on the popular spritz cocktail, combining aquavit with sparkling wine and a dash of soda water. This effervescent drink is perfect for long summer evenings, embodying the lively spirit of Oslo’s outdoor cafes and the country’s love for light, invigorating beverages.
19. Fjellbekk (Mountain Stream)
- Aquavit & vodka mountain cocktail
Fjellbekk, translating to “Mountain Stream,” is a clear, invigorating cocktail that combines aquavit, vodka, lime juice, and sparkling water. This drink mirrors the purity and freshness of Norway’s mountain streams, offering a crisp, clean taste that refreshes and enlivens the palate.
20. Nordlys (Northern Lights)
- Aquavit & blue curacao cocktail
The Nordlys, named after the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, is a visually stunning cocktail made with aquavit, blue curacao, and lemon juice. This drink captures the magical hues of the aurora borealis, offering not just a cocktail, but an experience, reminiscent of Norway’s most spectacular natural phenomenon.
21. Aurora Borealis (Nordlys Variation)
- Gin & shimmering liqueur mix
The Aurora Borealis is a different take on the Nordlys cocktail’s northern lights theme, blending Norwegian gin with a shimmering liqueur (e.g., Viniq) to create a drink that sparkles like the night sky. This version adds a touch of elegance and mystery to the evening, perfect for those special moments under the stars.
22. Skandinavisk Sling (Scandinavian Sling)
- Berry gin sling with a Nordic twist
The Skandinavisk Sling is a berry-infused cocktail that combines gin, preferably Norwegian, with Scandinavian berry liqueurs and a splash of lemon, creating a sweet and sour drink with a Nordic twist. This cocktail is a celebration of the region’s abundant berries, offering a taste of the lush Scandinavian forests in every sip.
2.2.) Norwegian Hot Alcoholic Beverages
23. Varm Akevitt Toddy (Hot Aquavit Toddy)
- Warm, spiced aquavit drink
The Varm Akevitt Toddy is a comforting, warm beverage made with aquavit, honey, and hot water, often spiced with cloves and cinnamon. This drink is a winter favorite in Norway, offering warmth and comfort during the cold, dark months, embodying the cozy Scandinavian concept of ‘hygge’.
24. Norsk Kaffe (Norwegian Coffee with Aquavit)
- Aquavit-infused coffee
Norsk Kaffe combines the rich, bold flavors of coffee with the distinctive taste of aquavit, creating a unique Norwegian twist on spiked coffee. This beverage is perfect for long winter nights or as a warming treat after a day spent exploring the snowy landscapes, blending the comfort of coffee with the spirit of Norway.
25. Gløgg (Mulled Wine)
- Spiced, warm holiday wine
Gløgg is a staple of Norwegian winter traditions, a mulled wine that’s richly spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, and often fortified with stronger spirits like aquavit or vodka. This heartwarming beverage is synonymous with coziness and holiday cheer, frequently enjoyed with raisins and almonds, making it an integral part of Norwegian Christmas celebrations.
26. Karsk
- Coffee mixed with moonshine
Karsk is a potent Norwegian drink, a unique combination of strong coffee and hjemmebrent (homemade moonshine) or vodka. Traditionally consumed in rural parts of Norway, Karsk is known for its straightforward preparation and powerful kick, embodying the Norwegian spirit of simplicity and the warmth needed to endure the cold Nordic nights.
3.) Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages from Norway
3.1.) Norwegian Wines
27. Is Vin (Ice Wine)
- Sweet, concentrated dessert wine
Norwegian Is Vin, or Ice Wine, is a luxurious dessert wine made from grapes frozen on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors. This rare and delicate wine is characterized by its intense sweetness and complex flavors, reminiscent of Norway’s crisp, frosty winters, and is a testament to the patience and skill of Norwegian winemakers.
28. Fruktviner (Fruit Wines)
- Berry-based, artisanal wines
Norwegian Fruktviner, or Fruit Wines, like Moltevin (Cloudberry Wine), Tyttebærvine (Lingonberry Wine), and Blåbærvine (Blueberry Wine), are crafted from the bounty of Norway’s forests and fields. These artisanal wines capture the essence of each berry, offering a range of flavors from the tartness of cloudberries to the sweet depth of blueberries, reflecting Norway’s rich natural heritage in every sip.
29. Rabarbravine (Rhubarb Wine)
- Tart, refreshing garden wine
Rabarbravine, or Rhubarb Wine, is a unique Norwegian wine made from the tart stalks of rhubarb. This wine is known for its refreshing acidity and subtle sweetness, making it a perfect springtime beverage. It embodies the innovative spirit of Norwegian winemaking, turning a common garden plant into a delightful wine.
30. Tindvedvin (Sea Buckthorn Wine)
- Tangy, nutrient-rich coastal wine
Tindvedvin, or Sea Buckthorn Wine, is made from the vibrant orange berries of the sea buckthorn plant, thriving along Norway’s coastlines. This wine offers a unique tangy flavor and is rich in nutrients, making it not only a pleasure to drink but also a reflection of the coastal landscapes and the innovative use of local ingredients in Norwegian winemaking.
3.2.) Norwegian Beers
31. Norsk Gårdsøl (Norwegian Farmhouse Ale, Kveik)
- Ancient, yeast-driven ale
Norsk Gårdsøl, or Norwegian Farmhouse Ale, is a traditional beer brewed with Kveik, ancient yeast strains unique to Norway. This brewing style is known for its versatility and distinctive fruity and spicy flavors, showcasing Norway’s rich brewing heritage and the innovative use of local ingredients.
Popular Norwegian brands of Norsk Gårdsøl (Norwegian Farmhouse Ale, Kveik):
- Kinn Bryggeri
- Nøgne Ø
- Eik & Tid
32. Norsk IPA (Norwegian IPA)
- Hoppy, aromatic beer
The Norsk IPA brings the globally popular India Pale Ale style to Norway, infusing it with local hops and brewing techniques. Known for its bold hoppy character and aromatic complexity, Norwegian IPAs stand out for their balance and the subtle influence of Norway’s pristine environment on their ingredients.
Popular Norwegian brands of Norsk IPA (Norwegian IPA):
- Lervig Aktiebryggeri
- Amundsen Bryggeri
- Ægir Bryggeri
33. Pilsner og Lyse Lagerøl (Pilsner and Light Lagers)
- Crisp, refreshing golden beers
Norwegian Pilsners and Light Lagers are the epitome of crisp, refreshing beers, perfect for Norway’s light summer nights. These beers are characterized by their clean, crisp taste, golden color, and light, refreshing finish, making them favorites among locals and visitors alike.
Popular Norwegian brands of Pilsner og Lyse Lagerøl (Pilsner and Light Lagers):
- Aass Bryggeri (Aass Pilsner)
- Ringnes
- Hansa Borg Bryggerier
34. Baltisk Porter (Baltic Porter)
- Rich, dark, malty lager
The Baltisk Porter, or Baltic Porter, in Norway is a rich, dark lager that combines the robust flavors of dark malt with a smooth lager finish. This beer style is known for its depth and complexity, featuring notes of caramel, chocolate, and coffee, perfect for the colder Norwegian climate.
Popular Norwegian brands of Baltisk Porter (Baltic Porter):
- Haandbryggeriet (often known for their innovative and traditional styles)
- Nøgne Ø (known for a range of craft beers including darker styles)
35. Norsk Saison (Norwegian Saison)
- Farmhouse-style, seasonal ale
Norsk Saison is Norway’s take on the classic Belgian Saison, adapted to local tastes and ingredients. These ales are typically light, refreshing, and often spiced, embodying the spirit of Norwegian farm brewing with their earthy, complex flavors and dry finish.
Popular Norwegian brands of Norsk Saison (Norwegian Saison):
- Kinn Bryggeri (known for their traditional and farmhouse-style beers)
- Nøgne Ø (offers a variety of craft beers including saison styles)
36. Juleøl (Norwegian Christmas Beer)
- Festive, spiced holiday brew
Juleøl, or Norwegian Christmas Beer, is a rich, warming brew traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. These beers are often darker, stronger, and spiced with traditional Christmas flavors, reflecting Norway’s festive traditions and the joy of the holiday season.
Popular Norwegian brands of Juleøl (Norwegian Christmas Beer):
- Aass Bryggeri (known for their traditional Juleøl)
- Ringnes (offers seasonal Juleøl)
- Kinn Bryggeri (produces a special Christmas beer)
37. Håndverksøl (Handcrafted Microbrews)
- Artisanal, innovative craft beers
Norwegian Håndverksøl, or Handcrafted Microbrews, represent the pinnacle of Norway’s craft beer movement. These beers range from classic styles to innovative brews, showcasing the creativity and skill of Norwegian brewers and the rich variety of local ingredients, reflecting the modern pulse of Norway’s brewing culture.
Popular Norwegian brands of Håndverksøl (Handcrafted Microbrews):
- Lervig Aktiebryggeri (known for a wide range of craft beers)
- 7 Fjell Bryggeri
- Cervisiam Brewery
38. Stjørdalsøl
- Smoked, traditional farmhouse ale
Stjørdalsøl is a unique, smoked farmhouse ale from the Stjørdal region, known for its distinctive use of locally smoked malt. This gives the beer a rich, smoky character that harks back to ancient Norwegian brewing traditions, offering a deep connection to the land and its history.
3.3.) Other Norwegian Brewed & Fermented Drinks
39. Mjød (Mead)
- Honey-based ancient beverage
Mjød, or Mead, is a traditional Norwegian beverage made by fermenting honey with water, often infused with various herbs, spices, or fruits. This ancient drink, steeped in Viking history, is experiencing a revival, offering a sweet, complex flavor profile that connects drinkers with Norway’s rich past.
40. Norsk Gårdsider (Traditional Norwegian Farmhouse Cider)
- Rustic, apple-based cider
Norsk Gårdsider, or Traditional Norwegian Farmhouse Cider, is crafted in small batches with local apple varieties, reflecting the diversity of Norway’s apple orchards. These ciders are known for their depth and complexity, ranging from sweet to dry, and are a testament to Norway’s artisanal cider-making traditions.
41. Bærsider (Berry Cider)
- Fruit-infused, innovative ciders
Bærsider, or Berry Ciders, include innovative drinks like Moltesider (Cloudberry Cider) and Tyttebærsider (Lingonberry Cider), showcasing Norway’s native berries. These ciders offer a refreshing twist on traditional cider, combining the tartness of berries with the sweetness of apples for a uniquely Nordic beverage experience.
42. Svakdricka (Simmered Beer)
- Light, malted traditional ale
Svakdricka is a traditional, light ale with a history dating back to farmhouse brewing in Norway. Characterized by its low alcohol content and mild, malty flavor, Svakdricka is a nod to the simpler times of Norwegian brewing, offering a gentle, easy-drinking experience.
4.) Non-Alcoholic Drinks from Norway
4.1.) Cold Norwegian Non-Alcoholic Beverages
43. Saft
- Concentrated berry syrup
Saft in Norway is a beloved non-alcoholic beverage, concentrated syrups made from a variety of berries like Solbærsaft (Blackcurrant), Jordbærsaft (Strawberry), and Bringebærsaft (Raspberry). Diluted with water, these syrups provide a refreshing and fruity drink, embodying the natural sweetness of Norwegian summers.
44. Norsk Lemonade (Norwegian Lemonade)
- Refreshing, homemade citrus drink
Norsk Lemonade is a refreshing homemade drink, often infused with local berries or herbs, adding a unique Norwegian twist to the classic lemonade. This thirst-quenching beverage is a summer staple, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, reflecting Norway’s appreciation for natural, simple flavors.
45. Iste (Iced Tea)
- Chilled, brewed tea
Iste, or Iced Tea, in Norway is a popular cold beverage, especially during the warmer months. Made by chilling brewed tea and often flavored with lemon, mint, or Norwegian berries, it offers a refreshing escape, showcasing the Norwegian penchant for enjoying the natural essence of ingredients.
46. Solo (Orange Soft Drink)
Iconic Norwegian soft drink
Solo is an iconic Norwegian soft drink with a history dating back to 1934. Known for its distinctive orange flavor, Solo has a special place in Norwegian hearts, symbolizing nostalgia and national pride. It’s more than a beverage; it’s a taste of Norwegian culture.
47. Bris (Sparkling Water with Fruit Flavor)
- Flavored sparkling water
Bris is a Norwegian sparkling water infused with natural fruit flavors, offering a light and refreshing beverage option. This drink is perfect for those seeking a subtle taste sensation, reflecting Norway’s clean, simple approach to enjoying the essence of nature.
48. Norsk Håndverksbrus (Norwegian Craft Soda)
- Artisanal, locally brewed soda
Norsk Håndverksbrus, or Norwegian Craft Soda, represents the burgeoning scene of artisanal sodas in Norway. Crafted with natural ingredients and often featuring unique local flavors, these sodas are a testament to Norwegian creativity and the growing trend towards quality, craft beverages.
49. Farris (Mineral Water)
- Natural, mineral-rich water
Farris is a renowned Norwegian mineral water, sourced from the natural springs of Larvik. Known for its purity and mineral content, Farris is not just a refreshing drink but also a staple of Norwegian wellness, embodying the country’s pristine natural landscapes.
4.2.) Hot Norwegian Non-Alcoholic Beverages
50. Kaffe (Coffee)
- Staple Norwegian hot beverage
Kaffe in Norway is more than just a drink; it’s a vital part of daily life and social culture. Norwegians are among the world’s top coffee consumers, with a preference for light-roasted, black coffee, often enjoyed multiple times throughout the day as a warm, comforting ritual.
51. Bålkaffe (Campfire Coffee)
- Traditionally brewed outdoor coffee
Bålkaffe, or Campfire Coffee, is a cherished Norwegian tradition, where coffee is brewed outdoors over an open fire. This method imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the coffee, reflecting Norway’s deep connection with nature and the outdoors, and is often enjoyed during hiking or skiing trips in the stunning Norwegian landscape.
52. Kakao (Hot Chocolate)
- Rich, warming chocolate drink
Kakao, or Hot Chocolate, in Norway is a rich and warming beverage, especially popular during the cold winter months. Made with high-quality cocoa and often topped with whipped cream, it’s a comforting treat that provides a sweet escape from the chilly Nordic climate.
53. Te (Tea)
- Steeped, aromatic hot beverage
Te, or Tea, in Norway, though not as prevalent as coffee, still holds a special place, particularly during the long, dark winters. From black to green teas, often enjoyed with a slice of lemon or a dash of honey, tea in Norway offers a moment of warmth and tranquility amidst the hustle of daily life.
54. Urte Te (Herbal Teas)
- Soothing, plant-based infusions
Urte Te, or Herbal Teas, such as Kamille (Chamomile), Brennesle (Nettle), and Timian (Thyme), are widely consumed in Norway for their health benefits and soothing properties. These teas offer a natural remedy for relaxation and wellness, embodying the Norwegian ethos of living in harmony with nature.
55. Chaga Te (Chaga Tea)
- Earthy, mushroom-based brew
Chaga Te, made from the Chaga mushroom found in Norwegian birch forests, is a unique, earthy tea known for its potential health benefits. This dark, rich brew is part of the growing trend in Norway towards natural, foraged ingredients, offering a taste of the wild Norwegian landscape.
56. Lakrisrot Te (Licorice Root Tea)
- Sweet, aromatic herbal tea
Lakrisrot Te, or Licorice Root Tea, is a sweet, aromatic herbal tea enjoyed for its soothing properties and distinct flavor. This tea is a favorite in Norway, particularly in the colder months, for its comforting warmth and the gentle, natural sweetness of licorice.
57. Nype Te (Rosehip Tea)
- Tangy, vitamin-rich infusion
Nype Te, or Rosehip Tea, is made from the fruit of the rose plant and is cherished in Norway for its tangy flavor and high vitamin C content. This bright, refreshing tea is a staple in Norwegian homes, offering a healthful, warming beverage that mirrors the vibrant hues of Norway’s natural beauty.