Top 10 Danish Drinks to Try During Your Visit!

Here is a comprehensive list of Danish drinks to try for a fun-filled Denmark travel experience

Although Denmark is not known for its beverages, it deserves a spot in the industry. Brewing and distilling tasty beverages have been a part of the Danish culture since time immemorial.

Like other Scandinavian countries, Denmark‘s alcohol comes with unique blends and flavors with ingredients mostly sourced locally. They are generally of premium taste, and through proper marketing, they can nail the recognition they deserve.

Danish drinks also date back to the country’s founding fathers, such as the mighty Viking warriors. It is said that these warriors drew their strength from beverages, revitalizing their resolve to conquer cities after cities. Whether true or not, these statements portray how beverages have shaped the modern Danish society we know today.

When visiting Denmark, consider tasting the following drinks and take the chance to interact with the locals. It would be more fun and meaningful.

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Top 10 Danish Drinks to Try (Guide): Tasting Culture & History

Akvavit

Akvavit is one of the most popular local liquors in Denmark and is made from grains and potatoes. For hundreds of years, the Danish people have been distilling the alcohol and have been used for various cultural ceremonies and practices, including festivals.

It has a distinct flavor with hints of spices and herbs, traditionally at least, caraway or dill. Akvavit comes from the Latin word aqua vitae, which means “the water of life.” One can buy a bottle or two from any major groceries or stores.

Mead

Considered one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages, Mead has also been foundational in Danish culture. It’s derived from two main ingredients, namely fermented honey and water, with inclusions with spices, fruits, and other flavors.

These flavors are typically added once the Mead is ready to drink. It’s like a cider with its warm feature and a sweet taste. It’s a popular offering on the bars and restaurants of Denmark with flavors unique to the country.

Brennivin

While Akvavit comes with various flavors, Brennivin speaks of a strong brew without hints of added flavor. It’s made mainly from grains and potatoes, giving it features and qualities of a vodka.

But what makes it different is that the Danish people have been brewing it even before the term Vodka came to formalization. Brennivin is famous for heavy drinkers or those who want to dose off with the spirits. Make sure you’re with a buddy when trying this out on the bars.

Carlsberg Beer

Carlsberg Beer speaks of the quality of Denmark’s beer industry. It is a famous beverage not just in the country but all over the world. It’s a staple both in local and international bars and restaurants. The Carlsberg brewery offers various sets of Danish stouts and pilsners and other kinds of available beer. It is one of the bestselling Denmark beers.

Glogg

For English speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Glogg is known as mulled wine. It is a famous beverage derived from wine and heated with spices and herbs like nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon.

This Danish drink dates back to ancient Rome and remains a popular option until today. It’s an ideal drink during cold weather; thus, it also took roots in other Scandinavian countries. It has become a popular Danish liquor.

Fruit Wines

Unlike in other European countries like France or Switzerland, grapes don’t thrive in Denmark’s cold weather. So the Danish people came up with wines from other fruits such as elderberries, cherries, and other small fruits which abound locally. That is why Danish fruit wines come in bursting flavors unique only to specific communities where the used fruits are found.

Tuborg Beer

The Carlsberg has owned the Tuborg Brewery since the 1970s. But even so, it retained its distinct flavor with a special place in beverage history.

Although it’s not the most popular drink in Denmark, it became one of the best-selling items during the Christmas season. During this time, thousands of customers await its annual release of a special Christmas ale.

Punsch

Don’t confuse this beverage with a punch or having the qualities of a punch. Again, it’s punsch. It is made from fruit flavors, neutral spirits like brennivin, arrack, and sugar, thus, it contains a combination of unique tastes. Although it originated from Sweden, it’s becoming popular and common in Denmark.

Smorgasbord Eggnog

Smorgasbord Eggnog is often associated with the popular eggnog snack as they do have similarities. After all, this beverage is made from the combination of whipped eggs, cream, sugar, and either rum or brandy.

To spice up the flavor, cinnamon or nutmeg is added. It’s also popularly served during Christmas. Local brewers can remove the brandy or rum to come up with a non-alcoholic drink.

Microbrewed Beer

Because Denmark is so close to countries like Belgium and Germany, which are famous for their brewing industry, it’s microbreweries are rapidly growing. More and more Danish businessmen are supporting the development of new brands. That is why almost every major store or mall has versions of products from the microbreweries.

So those are just some of the Danish drinks to try when visiting Denmark. Have a meaningful indulgence, and who knows, get a glimpse of the Danes’ rich brewing culture and history.