How vodka came to Finland
Most people associate the history of vodka with Russia or Poland. However, the art of making vodka has been known in Finland as early as the 16th century. The knowledge was likely brought to Finland by mercenaries who had learned the recipe and the process of distillation in foreign countries.
Interestingly enough, the geographic location of Finland is perfectly suited for the production of the clear spirit since there’s an abundance of fresh water and grain. That’s why it didn’t take long before vodka established itself as the Finnish national drink. The high demand was first interrupted in 1756 when the availability of grain declined sharply due to bad climatic conditions. The production of vodka was banned for a short time to ensure an adequate food supply for the population. Fortunately, the difficult economic situation started relaxing soon and the production of vodka continued.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the vodka industry had to deal with another setback: As in many other countries at that time, Prohibition was established in Finland in 1919. The sudden halt in production meant the end for many established distilleries and therefore a part of Finnish vodka history.
The end of World War I heralded the start of modern vodka production in Finland. Since the state put a lot of money into subsidies for domestic vodka production, the Finnish vodka industry soon became one of the most modern in the world. Today, there are many state-owned producers as well as a few independent distilleries that bring joy to vodka fans from all over the world.
What Finnish vodka brands are there?
There are many interesting vodka brands from Finland. We have selected three examples for you here:
Finlandia Vodka
Finlandia Vodka opened its first distillery in the year 1888 and started producing high-quality vodka until the start of Prohibition. After the brand was nationalised, the American corporation Brown-Forman bought the company. Finlandia produces its vodka from six rowed barley and pure glacier water.
Gustav Arctic Vodka
Gustav Arctic belongs to the independent producer Lignell & Piispanen, which is known for its liqueurs and its yearly changing premium mulled wine. Their vodka is produced from select, high-quality grain and knows how to impress with its balance of strength and mildness.
Marskin Ryyppy Vodka
Marskin Ryyppy may be hard to pronounce for us non-Finns, however, it’s worth taking a closer look at the spirit. Experts have been puzzling over the recipe of the drink for years and haven’t yet figured it out.
Finnish Vodka at Gustero
At Gustero, you can find many high-quality vodkas from all over the world. Discover the best offers from our assortment now!
