Svagdricka

A small beer.

Svagdricka
Photo: Janee,CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Svagdricka is a type of small beer, meaning it has low alcohol content of less than 2.25%. It's a traditional Swedish beverage that resembles Russian kvass.

How it is made

Svagdricka is an unpasteurized, top-fermented malt drink. It's sweet and dark in color, similar to a traditional ale.

History

In the early 20th century, local production of svagdricka was widespread throughout Sweden. Its popularity has declined in recent decades, though it remains one of two old Swedish beer varieties that have survived to modern times. The beverage was a favorite of King Charles XII.

How it is served

Svagdricka is traditionally consumed during Christmas and Easter periods, served alongside traditional Swedish dishes. Its consumption during these holidays has been overshadowed by julmust in terms of popularity.

Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Свагдрика, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.