In brief
With an increase in commercial vineyards, Scandinavian winemakers are turning heads globally as climate change allows them to explore a previously overlooked wine industry.
Despite being known for their cold climates, Denmark and Sweden are stepping up their game in the wine world, turning the icy terrain into a promising vineyard haven. Hundreds of entrepreneurs are planting vines in the region, transforming wine from a niche hobby to a thriving industry. At Vejrhøj Vingård in Zealand, for instance, winemakers Nina and Niels Fink have seen their production soar from 4,000 to 20,000 bottles, primarily using a tough hybrid grape called Solaris. This grape variety, praised for its disease resistance, ripens easily in Scandinavia’s unique environment, which boasts long summer days.The rise of Scandinavian winemaking gained momentum after the EU lifted restrictions in 2000. Today, cellar doors are opening across Denmark and Sweden, with a combined total of over 150 commercial vineyards. These winemakers are investing in sustainable practices as they embrace the challenges of colder growing conditions.Though the climate has warmed slightly, which helps with growing seasons, the high costs of labor and regulations add pressure to the budding industry. Despite the hurdles, passionate winemakers like Romain Chichery are motivated to innovate, creating wines that can stand up against those from established regions like France and Spain.However, local wines remain pricey, often costing over $27 a bottle, which can make them difficult to sell domestically and internationally. While some are optimistic about the future of Scandinavian wines—often with a twinkle in the eye of first-time tasters—many experts believe they still have a way to go for widespread recognition.
