❓ Frequently Asked Questions / FAQ
1. What is a long drink / Lonkero?
A long drink, or Lonkero, is a Finnish alcoholic beverage made from gin and grapefruit soda, often served chilled.
2. Where did Lonkero originate?
Lonkero originated in Finland in the 1950s, created for the Helsinki Olympics to serve easy-to-drink cocktails to visitors.
3. What flavours of long drink are available?
Common flavours include grapefruit, lemon, cranberry, and seasonal or limited-edition fruit mixes.
4. Are there non-alcoholic (0.0%) long drinks?
Yes, many brands produce 0.0% alcohol versions with the same flavour profile, ideal for alcohol-free consumption.
5. What is the typical alcohol percentage (ABV)?
The alcohol content is usually around 4–5% ABV for standard long drinks.
6. Is Lonkero the same as gin & tonic?
No, Lonkero uses grapefruit soda instead of tonic, giving it a sweeter, fruitier taste than traditional gin & tonic.
7. Can I recreate Lonkero at home?
Yes, mix gin with grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice and a splash of soda for an authentic homemade version.
8. Which brands make authentic Lonkero?
Hartwall Original is the most famous, but other Finnish brands and craft producers also make authentic versions.
9. Where can I buy Lonkero outside Finland?
Lonkero is available in specialty stores, online retailers, and some international bars, depending on your country.
10. Is Lonkero gluten-free?
Yes, most Lonkero brands are gluten-free, made primarily from gin and soda without grains containing gluten.
11. How many calories does a typical Lonkero have?
A standard 330ml can contains roughly 150–170 calories, depending on sugar content.
12. Is there a 'classic' Lonkero recipe?
Yes, the classic recipe is gin mixed with grapefruit soda in equal parts, served chilled with ice.
13. What is the best way to serve a long drink?
Serve chilled over ice in a highball glass, optionally garnished with a slice of grapefruit or lemon.
14. Does long drink pair well with food?
Yes, it pairs well with light dishes, seafood, salads, and summer snacks due to its citrusy taste.
15. Are there premium or craft long drinks?
Yes, craft brands focus on natural ingredients, artisanal gin, and unique flavour combinations.
16. What makes Hartwall Original special?
Hartwall Original is the iconic Finnish brand, known for its authentic taste and consistent quality.
17. Are long drinks suitable for outdoor events?
Yes, their refreshing taste makes them ideal for picnics, summer parties, and barbecues.
18. Can I mix long drink with other spirits or cocktails?
Yes, Lonkero can be used as a mixer in cocktails for creative variations.
19. Do long drinks contain natural fruit juice?
Many versions contain real grapefruit juice or natural fruit extracts for authentic taste.
20. What packaging sizes are common?
Common sizes include 330ml cans and 275–330ml glass bottles.
21. How should long drinks be stored?
Store in a cool, dark place. Opened bottles should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and carbonation.
22. Can I find Lonkero in bars and restaurants?
Yes, widely available in Finland and in selected international bars and restaurants.
23. Is Lonkero popular among younger adults?
Yes, particularly during summer and at outdoor events, Lonkero is popular with young adults.
24. Are there seasonal or limited edition flavours?
Yes, some brands offer seasonal editions or limited fruit flavour specials.
25. Can I order long drinks online?
Yes, many online retailers and specialty stores offer Lonkero for home delivery.
26. What is the difference between regular and zero-alcohol long drinks?
Zero-alcohol versions contain no alcohol but maintain similar flavour and refreshment.
27. Are long drinks vegan-friendly?
Yes, most Long Drinks are vegan-friendly, containing no animal-derived ingredients.
28. How long do unopened drinks last?
Unopened bottles or cans usually last 12–18 months, depending on the brand.
29. Can long drinks be used in cocktails?
Yes, Lonkero is versatile and can be used in cocktail recipes for creative drinks.
30. Are there special editions for holidays or events?
Yes, some brands produce limited editions for holidays, events, or seasonal celebrations.
31. How is the drink carbonated?
Lonkero is lightly carbonated, giving it a refreshing, sparkling taste.
32. What ingredients are used in long drinks?
Gin, grapefruit soda, water, sugar or syrup, and sometimes natural flavour extracts.
33. Are long drinks suitable for parties?
Yes, they are easy to serve, refreshing, and popular at summer parties and gatherings.
34. How do Finnish people usually enjoy Lonkero?
Typically chilled on ice, during summer, social gatherings, or outdoor events.
35. Are mini or small bottle options available?
Yes, small bottles or sample sizes are offered for single servings or tasting purposes.
36. Can long drinks be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as it can affect carbonation and flavour.
37. How do craft versions differ from Hartwall?
Craft versions use natural ingredients, less sugar, and unique, artisanal flavours.
38. Can long drinks be bought as gift sets?
Yes, gift sets with multiple flavours or branded glasses are available.
39. Are there organic long drinks?
Yes, some brands produce organic versions using certified ingredients.
40. How long does an opened bottle last?
Opened bottles should be consumed within a few days to one week to preserve freshness and carbonation.
41. Are long drinks sold in cans and bottles?
Yes, both cans and glass bottles are commonly used packaging options.
42. Can long drinks be shipped internationally?
Yes, many online retailers ship internationally, but alcohol shipping laws must be followed.
43. Are sugar-free options available?
Yes, some brands produce sugar-reduced or sugar-free long drinks.
44. How are long drinks served in restaurants?
Typically over ice in tall glasses, often garnished with a slice of lemon or grapefruit.
45. Are there imported and Finnish brands?
Yes, alongside Finnish brands, imported long drinks exist in international markets.
46. Are long drinks suitable for all adults?
Yes, but only for adults of legal drinking age.
47. Can bottles be reused for other drinks?
Yes, empty bottles can be cleaned and reused for homemade drinks or decoration.
48. Are there international variations of long drinks?
Yes, some countries make their own versions using local fruit or spirits.
49. What is the recommended drinking temperature?
Long drinks should be served well chilled, around 4–6°C (39–43°F).
50. Where can I learn more about Lonkero's history?
More information is available on brand websites, Finnish beverage blogs, and online sources covering Finnish drink history.