Finnish Long Drink Recipe

Gin: A distilled alcoholic drink that forms the base of this cocktail, providing a strong and aromatic flavor.

Grapefruit soda: A carbonated beverage that adds a tangy and sweet element to the drink.

Lemon: Used as a garnish, it adds a fresh citrus aroma and a touch of acidity.

Ice: Keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.

When preparing the Finnish Long Drink, consider using a chilled highball glass to enhance the refreshing quality of the cocktail. Additionally, opt for a high-quality gin to ensure a smooth and balanced flavor. For an extra touch, you can lightly squeeze the lemon slice over the drink before garnishing to add a hint of citrus aroma.

• gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka provides a neutral base that allows the grapefruit soda flavor to shine through, similar to gin but without the botanical notes.

• grapefruit soda - Substitute with lemon-lime soda: Lemon-lime soda offers a citrusy flavor that complements the gin and provides a similar refreshing quality.

• lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a similar tartness and citrus aroma, making it a suitable garnish that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• ice - Substitute with crushed ice: Crushed ice chills the drink quickly and evenly, providing a similar cooling effect as ice cubes.

• To keep your Finnish Long Drink fresh, store any leftover gin in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain its flavor and potency.
• If you have extra grapefruit soda, ensure it is tightly sealed and refrigerated. This keeps the carbonation intact and the soda fresh.
• For the lemon slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• If you want to prepare the drink in advance, mix the gin and grapefruit soda in a pitcher and refrigerate. Add the ice and lemon garnish just before serving to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
• Avoid freezing the Finnish Long Drink as the carbonation in the grapefruit soda may cause it to lose its fizz and alter the texture of the drink.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing the gin separately in ice cube trays. This allows you to add a chilled element to your drink without diluting it.
• For a quick chill, place the highball glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before preparing the drink. This ensures your Finnish Long Drink stays cold longer.
• Always use fresh ice to avoid any off-flavors from previously stored ice. Fresh ice enhances the overall taste and experience of your Finnish Long Drink.

• pour the Finnish Long Drink into a small saucepan.
• gently heat over low flame, stirring occasionally to maintain the balance of flavors.
• avoid boiling to preserve the integrity of the gin and grapefruit soda.
• once warmed, transfer back into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
• garnish with a fresh slice of lemon to enhance the presentation and aroma.

Alternatively:

• pour the Finnish Long Drink into a microwave-safe container.
• microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• stir gently and pour back into a highball glass with fresh ice.
• garnish with a fresh slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.

• Highball glass: A tall, narrow glass perfect for serving mixed drinks like the Finnish Long Drink.

• Jigger: A small measuring tool used to accurately measure the gin.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for gently stirring the drink to combine the ingredients.

• Knife: A sharp tool used to slice the lemon for garnish.

• Cutting board: A flat surface used to safely cut the lemon.

• Ice scoop: A tool used to easily transfer ice into the highball glass.

Pre-chill your glass: Keep your highball glass in the freezer so it's ready to go when you need it.

Use pre-sliced lemon: Slice your lemon in advance and store it in the fridge to save time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out your gin and grapefruit soda ahead of time for quick assembly.

Batch your drinks: If making multiple servings, mix a larger batch in a pitcher and pour as needed.

Use quality ice: Keep a stash of good quality ice cubes in your freezer to avoid last-minute ice runs.