Norwegian gin: a guide to Norway's best

Norwegian gin - a guide to Norway's best

Norway is not only mountains, fjords and aquavit. In recent years, the country has become one of Europe's most exciting places for gin. Small producers use local botanicals, clean water and Nordic flavour ideas to create bottles with a clear sense of place.

Why Norwegian gin stands out

Norwegian gin often uses ingredients from forests, mountains and coastlines. Think juniper, spruce shoots, seaweed, cloudberries, angelica, rhubarb and herbs. The result is usually fresh, aromatic and a little wild.

Producers worth knowing

Bareksten from Bergen is one of the best-known names, with dark forest-inspired flavours and a strong identity.

Bivrost from Lyngen uses Arctic inspiration and produces gin far north under the northern lights.

Harahorn is inspired by Norwegian folklore and often has a soft, accessible style with berries and herbs.

Oslo Håndverksdestilleri works with Norwegian botanicals and creates spirits with a modern craft feel.

What does Norwegian gin taste like?

It varies, but you often find:

• •Clear juniper
• •Fresh citrus
• •Forest herbs
• •Floral notes
• •Berries and Nordic fruit
• •A crisp mineral finish

How to serve it

A Norwegian gin deserves a good tonic and a simple garnish. Try grapefruit peel, rosemary, spruce, cucumber or a few berries. Do not drown the gin. Start with one part gin and two parts tonic, then adjust.

Norwegian gin in a tasting

A gin tasting is a great way to compare styles. Put a classic London Dry next to two or three Norwegian gins and you quickly notice how much place and botanicals matter.

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Want to explore Norwegian gin with friends or colleagues? Book a gin tasting and we will pour the good stuff.