Finnish Long Drink: Guide to Finland’s Classic Gin-Based Cocktail

Citrus soda and gin come together to create the Finnish Long Drink — an incredibly refreshing cocktail with an interesting origin that’s surprisingly simple to mix. Known as the Lonkero and regarded as Finland’s national cocktail, this drink is the perfect summer refresher.

Recently you may have noticed canned versions appearing in stores from brands like The Long Drink Company and Bevy Long Drink. They’re increasingly available in many U.S. markets, especially on the East Coast.

Here you’ll learn how to make an authentic Finnish Long Drink at home using real spirits for far less than canned options, without sacrificing flavor. It’s quick, thirst-quenching, and eminently drinkable.

Citrus soda & gin combine in a Finnish Long Drink; an ultra-refreshing tipple with a fun history that's unbelievably easy to make and drink!

The name “Long Drink” is a little ironic — it takes no time at all to make one, and even less time to drink it. Taste-wise, think of a premium Fresca or Squirt: bright, citrusy, and slightly tart. The gin adds herbal and juniper notes that make the drink more complex and interesting.

For soda, my top choice is a real grapefruit-based sparkling soda. I prefer Q Sparkling Grapefruit because it tastes like real grapefruit, keeps the pleasantly puckery character of the fruit, and has just enough sweetness to balance the gin. One can paired with a double shot of gin fills a pint jar perfectly for a strong, satisfying Long Drink.

If you prefer nicer glassware over a pint jar, use a tumbler — the drink works great in any chilled glass.

The Finnish Long Drink

At its core the Finnish Long Drink, or Lonkero, is simply citrus soda mixed with gin. Typical ready-to-drink versions have around 5.5% ABV, and many modern variations exist, but the hallmark is a tart, not-too-sweet, gin-forward citrus beverage.

The drink’s origin is unusual: it dates to the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. Finland was still recovering economically from World War II, and the government needed a beverage that could be produced and served quickly to the large influx of athletes, visitors, and officials. Officials commissioned a ready-to-serve mixed drink that bartenders could produce in high volumes while remaining tasty enough to encourage repeat sales. The Long Drink debuted at those games and quickly became a national favorite.

For decades it was largely a Finnish phenomenon. In recent years beverage companies began producing and distributing canned versions in larger markets like the U.S., and the Long Drink is now gaining deserved international attention.

Choosing Ingredients

Soda selection matters. In order of preference: Q Sparkling Grapefruit is first, followed by Squirt, and then the classic Fresca (avoid the unsweetened sparkling water version if you want the fuller flavor). A grapefruit-based soda gives the most authentic and satisfying result.

Gin is equally important. My favorite is Hendrick’s for its floral and cucumber notes alongside juniper, which complement the citrus nicely. If Hendrick’s isn’t your style or budget, choose a good-quality dry gin rather than very cheap options; mid-shelf gins like Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, or Beefeater will all work well and won’t introduce harsh, astringent off-flavors.

Optional additions: a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice can brighten the drink, especially if you use Squirt or Fresca. Q Sparkling Grapefruit often has enough citrus character on its own, but a small amount of fresh citrus can lift the profile. For a North American twist, try a splash of cranberry juice for color and tartness, or add a little fresh grapefruit juice if you love bold grapefruit flavor. Garnish with a grapefruit slice if you like.

Finnish Long Drink

Fill a pint jar or tumbler with ice. Pour in 1.5 ounces of dry gin for a standard Long Drink, or 3 ounces for a Strong Long Drink. Pour half of a chilled grapefruit soda over the gin. Add a splash of lemon, lime, grapefruit, or cranberry juice if desired, and give a couple of gentle stirs. Top with the remaining grapefruit soda and serve immediately.

Finnish Long Drink

Citrus soda and gin combine in a Finnish Long Drink for an ultra-refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail.

Equipment

tumbler or pint jar
spoon

Ingredients

ice
1.5 to 3 ounces dry gin
7 to 8 ounces grapefruit soda, well chilled (preferably Q Sparkling Grapefruit, Squirt, or Fresca)

Optional but tasty

A splash of lemon juice, lime juice, cranberry juice, or fresh grapefruit juice

Instructions

Fill a pint jar or tumbler with ice.
Pour in 1.5 ounces of dry gin for a standard Long Drink or 3 ounces for a Strong Long Drink.
Pour half of the chilled grapefruit soda over the gin. Add any optional juice and stir gently. Top with the remaining grapefruit soda and serve immediately.