väkiviina

Väkiviina is a Finnish term that translates to "strong liquor" or "distilled spirit." It refers to alcoholic beverages produced through the distillation of fermented ingredients. This process separates and concentrates the alcohol from the original mixture, resulting in a higher alcohol content compared to non-distilled drinks like beer or wine.

Historically, väkiviina was produced in Finland using various base materials, including grains such as barley or rye, and potatoes. The production methods often involved simple stills, and the resulting spirit was typically unaged and clear. The term itself can encompass a range of strong alcoholic drinks, but in common usage, it often referred to a type of clear, potent spirit.

In Finland, the production and sale of väkiviina have been regulated for a long time. The state-owned Alko is the sole retailer of alcoholic beverages above a certain alcohol percentage, including väkiviina. The strong nature of väkiviina meant it was often consumed in moderation, often diluted or used in mixed drinks.

While the term is still understood, modern Finnish discourse often uses more specific names for different types of distilled spirits, such as vodka, whisky, or gin, rather than the broader term väkiviina. However, the concept of strong, distilled alcohol remains a part of Finnish beverage culture and history.