Finnish Lonkero
Finnish Lonkero is a classic Finnish long drink made with gin and grapefruit soda.It was introduced around the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games.The drink combines botanical gin with bright, slightly bitter grapefruit flavor.Plenty of ice keeps the drink cold and refreshing.A grapefruit wedge provides a simple and attractive garnish.It is an easy Finnish-inspired cocktail for warm-weather gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) gin
- 4–5 oz (120–150 ml) grapefruit soda
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 grapefruit wedge, for garnish
- Small grapefruit peel, optional
- 1½ oz (45 ml) gin
- 2 oz (60 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
- 2 oz (60 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
- 3 oz (90 ml) chilled sparkling water
- ½–1 oz (15–30 ml) simple syrup, to taste
- Grapefruit wedge
Instructions
Chill the Glass
- Choose a tall highball glass or another suitable long-drink glass.If desired, chill the glass in the refrigerator for a few minutes before preparing the drink.
Add the Ice
- Fill the glass generously with ice cubes.Plenty of ice helps keep the drink cold without requiring additional chilling.
Pour in the Gin
- Measure 2 ounces (60 ml) of gin and pour it over the ice.A London dry-style gin works well because its botanical character complements the citrus flavor.
Add the Grapefruit Soda
- Slowly pour approximately 4–5 ounces (120–150 ml) of chilled grapefruit soda into the glass.Pour gently to preserve as much carbonation as possible.
Stir Gently
- Use a long bar spoon or straw to give the drink one or two gentle stirs.Avoid vigorous stirring because it can cause the carbonation to disappear quickly.
Garnish
- Add a fresh grapefruit wedge to the rim or place it directly into the glass.For additional aroma, gently twist a small piece of grapefruit peel over the drink before adding it.
Serve Immediately
- Serve the Finnish Lonkero immediately while it is cold and fizzy.For a traditional-style presentation, keep the drink simple and let the grapefruit and gin flavors take center stage.
Notes
- Classic flavor: Traditional Lonkero is characterized by the combination of gin and grapefruit flavor.
- Use chilled ingredients: Cold gin and grapefruit soda help create a more refreshing drink.
- Choose plenty of ice: A full glass of ice keeps the drink colder for longer.
- Grapefruit soda: Different grapefruit sodas vary considerably in sweetness and bitterness.
- Gin selection: A clean, botanical gin works particularly well.
- Carbonation: Add the soda last and stir gently to preserve its fizz.
- Fresh version: Fresh grapefruit juice creates a more natural citrus profile.
- Serve responsibly: Lonkero contains alcohol, so enjoy it responsibly and only where legally permitted.