In keeping with our tongue-in-cheek twist on our claim “your connection to the spirit of Scandinavia”, Finlandia vodka has been making headlines as well. In the March issue of “Spirit Business” magazine, Finlandia was named the fastest-growing spirit brand with a 2007 increase of 19% in 2007. Finlandia has been the top-selling brand of vodka in Russia, but this past year it has experienced the most growth in Poland, where over 800,000 9 litre cases were sold. Finlandia is now the sixth largest premium vodka producer in the world, closing the gap on Skyy spirits and Stolichnaya.
Yet despite all the hype, Finlandia is certain to give credit where credit is due. On their website*, they explain that Finlandia vodka could not be successful without the rich natural resources and scenic beauty that the countryside of Finland has to offer. Finlandia is distilled in the town of Ilmajoki, just outside of Vaasa, and is made with Finland’s pure glacial spring water and six-row barley.
The unique design of Finlandia vodka bottle was created by the famous Finnish sculptor, Tapio Wirkalla, and is considered one of his best works. The bottle also recognizes the importance of the Midnight Sun to the Finnish culture by its incorporation within the logo. The Midnight Sun symbolizes the summer months in Finland where they experience continuous daylight. Its arrival is met with much celebration, including the popular consumption of the Finn’s native vodka.
Although the distillery itself is not often visited, we certainly recommend experiencing the countryside that helped create this special spirit. Finland boasts a labyrinth of glittering lakes and serene forestland. It is the perfect destination for a road trip, scattered with unique spa hotels and comfortable inns along the way, and even better for an outdoor adventure filled with hiking and boating. Aside from its individual identity, Finland also makes an excellent launching point for your excursion to the Baltic countries or to the enchanting St. Petersburg, just a train ride away. The Nordic Company is knowledgeable and eager to assist you in whatever you travel whims may be to this very special part of the world!
We invite you to learn more about Finland travel as well as Scandinvian travel by visiting our pages dedicated to Iceland tours and Iceland travel; Norway tours, Norway travel and a Norwegian coastal voyage (also known as Hurtigruten); St. Petersburg travel and Sweden travel.
* You must be at least 21 years of age to enter the Finlandia website.
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080331/20080331005882.html?.v=1
www.finlandia.com
