The Classic Original Hartwall Long Drink Ingredients
The most famous version of the Hartwall long drink, the Original Gin & Grapefruit, has a remarkably straightforward ingredient list that has remained consistent since its creation in 1952. This simplicity is key to its refreshing and balanced flavor profile. The foundation of the drink is water, which is naturally abundant and clean in Finland, where Hartwall sources it. The gin is a special, handcrafted Finnish artisan gin, distilled specifically for this beverage. To achieve its characteristic bittersweet taste, it is mixed with a grapefruit soda. The other components are added to ensure consistency, shelf stability, and to enhance the overall drinking experience.
Core and Ancillary Components
- Water: The base of the beverage, sourced for its purity.
- Sugar: Added to balance the bitterness of the grapefruit and gin.
- Gin: A handcrafted Finnish artisan gin with notes of juniper berries, bitter orange, coriander, and angelica root.
- Carbon Dioxide: Responsible for the drink's signature sparkling, effervescent quality.
- Acidity Regulator (E330): Citric acid is used to maintain the drink's crisp taste and balance.
- Natural Flavors/Aroma: These give the drink its distinct grapefruit character.
- Safflower Extract/Stabilizer (E414): Natural ingredients used for color and to ensure a consistent mixture.
The meticulous selection of these ingredients, particularly the quality of the gin and the water, sets Hartwall's Original Long Drink apart from many imitators. The recipe has been protected for over 70 years, a testament to its enduring quality and appeal.
Hartwall Long Drink Variations and Their Ingredients
While the Original Gin & Grapefruit is the most iconic, Hartwall has expanded its long drink line to include several variations, each with its own specific set of ingredients. These variations cater to different flavor preferences, including non-alcoholic versions and higher alcohol content options.
The Original Lineup and Beyond
- Orange: Made with the original gin recipe, but incorporates natural orange flavor and concentrates of safflower, black carrot, and lemon for coloring.
- Cranberry: A popular fruity variant, mixing gin with cranberry flavoring.
- Pink Raspberry: Features a sweeter profile, combining gin with raspberry flavor.
- Zero Label (Grapefruit): The non-alcoholic version replaces the gin with natural flavorings to mimic the classic taste and uses preservatives instead of alcohol.
- Black Label (Grapefruit & Cranberry): Stronger versions with higher alcohol content, emphasizing the gin and fruit flavors.
Comparison of Hartwall's Original and Zero-Label Long Drinks
This table highlights the differences between the original alcoholic Hartwall long drink and its non-alcoholic counterpart, focusing on their ingredient variations and nutritional values.
| Feature | Original Gin & Grapefruit (5.5%) | Zero Label Grapefruit (0%) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Alcoholic Ingredient | Handcrafted Finnish Gin | None (Alcohol-free) |
| Core Flavoring | Grapefruit flavoring/aroma | Natural grapefruit flavorings |
| Acidity Regulator | E330 (Citric acid) | E330 (Citric acid) |
| Stabilizer | E414 (Acacia gum) | E414 (Acacia gum) |
| Preservative | Not typically specified | E202 (Potassium sorbate) |
| Sweetener | Sugar | Sugar |
| Calories (per 100ml) | 55 kcal | 27 kcal |
Conclusion: The Enduring Charm of the Hartwall Long Drink's Ingredients
From its simple, premium gin and grapefruit foundation in 1952 to its modern array of flavor variations, what are the ingredients in the Hartwall long drink has always been a key question for enthusiasts. The answer is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and tradition. The original recipe, created for the Helsinki Olympics, relies on a balanced blend of handcrafted Finnish gin, pure water, and grapefruit soda, with precise additions for effervescence and flavor consistency. Whether you prefer the classic taste, an orange twist, or the non-alcoholic zero-sugar option, the distinct and refreshing character of the long drink is derived from its carefully chosen components, ensuring its status as a beloved Finnish icon.
For more information on the brand and its history, visit the official website: Original Long Drink.
