In a landmark development for the whisky industry, Nordic whisky distilleries have officially come together in a collaboration aimed at strengthening and promoting the region’s whisky category on the global stage.
The decision was reached during a gathering of 18 key distilleries from across the Nordic countries, held in Copenhagen on 18-19 March. This event marked the first time the industry has united in such a manner.
“It has taken us a while to get to this point where we are ready for such a collaboration, but now we’re here,” said Anssi Pyysing, Head of the elected working group. “We’re neighbours who share both history and values, and by coming together, we will work to establish Nordic whisky as a category that stands proudly among the other recognised whisky regions.”
As an organisation, the Nordic Whisky Collaboration aims to enhance the identity and international recognition of Nordic whisky while providing a platform for distilleries to collaborate, share insights, and highlight the unique characteristics that set Nordic whisky apart.
Jan Groth, Head of the soon-to-be-established Nordic Whisky Collaboration, highlighted the importance of this initiative:
“This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Nordic whisky. The industry has grown a lot in the last decade, and now, with a united approach, we have the opportunity to truly showcase the exciting variety we have to whisky lovers around the world.”
The organisation’s next steps involve formalising its structure and setting strategic initiatives for the year ahead.