Eimverk Distillery

History of Eimverk Distillery

Eimverk Distillery holds the distinction of being Iceland’s first and only whisky distillery. Founded in 2009, this family-run business has carved a unique niche for itself, crafting premium Icelandic spirits using 100% local ingredients.

From Humble Beginnings to Icelandic Whisky (2009-2015)

The story of Eimverk Distillery is one of dedication and perseverance. The founding family embarked on a four-year journey of experimentation, conducting a staggering 163 trial distillations to perfect their signature whisky recipe. This meticulous approach ensured a spirit that truly captured the essence of Iceland.

The Birth of Flóki Whisky (2015-Present)

Finally, in 2015, Eimverk Distillery unveiled its flagship product: Flóki Icelandic Single Malt Whisky. Named after the legendary Viking explorer Hrafna-Flóki Vilgerðarson, the first Icelander to set foot on North America, Flóki embodies the spirit of discovery and innovation. 

This single malt whisky is crafted using Icelandic-grown barley, primarily the Kria strain known for its hardiness and unique flavor profile. Eimverk utilizes custom-made distillation equipment to extract the full character of the barley, and matures the whisky in new American oak casks for a complex and nuanced taste.

Eimverk Distillery offers several types of whiskey under the brand name Flóki. Their portfolio includes:

• Flóki Young Malt: A young malt whisky that showcases the potential of their maturing stock.
• Flóki Icelandic Single Malt: Made entirely from Icelandic barley, it offers a distinct flavor profile influenced by the local terroir.
• Flóki Sheep Dung Smoked Reserve: A unique variant where the malt is smoked using sheep dung, a traditional Icelandic method, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor.

Beyond Whisky: A Celebration of Icelandic Spirits

While Flóki whisky remains Eimverk’s signature offering, the distillery also produces other spirits that celebrate Icelandic ingredients and traditions. Vor, their Icelandic premium gin, is pot-distilled with botanicals like angelica root, juniper berries, and crowberry, resulting in a fresh and flavorful spirit. 

Víti, their take on the classic Icelandic brennivín aquavit, is crafted using caraway seeds, angelica root, and licorice root, offering a distinctive taste experience.

A Distillery Tour: Immersing Yourself in Icelandic Spirits

Eimverk Distillery offers tours for visitors interested in learning more about the whisky-making process and sampling their unique spirits. This is a perfect opportunity to witness firsthand the dedication to quality and innovation that goes into every bottle produced by Iceland’s pioneering distillery.

Eimverk Distillery’s story is one of passion and a commitment to creating exceptional spirits that showcase the best of Iceland. With their dedication to using local ingredients and their innovative approach, Eimverk Distillery is sure to continue its journey as a leader in the world of spirits.

Awards Won by Eimverk Distillery

Bartender Spirits Awards

• 2023: Flóki Icelandic Single Malt Beer Finish won a silver medal with 88 points for its rich and concentrated sweet aromas and unique earthy finish. Flóki Icelandic Single Malt Sheep Dung Finish also secured a silver medal with 87 points, praised for its sweet cream aromas and earthy layers​.

London Spirits Competition

• 2024: Eimverk’s Flóki Single Malt Sheep Dung Smoked Reserve won a bronze medal with 74 points. The distillery also received a silver medal for their ð – eth whisky, which scored 85 points and was noted for its fresh rye bread aroma and spicy palate​.
• 2022: Flóki Icelandic Single Malt Whisky Sheep Dung Smoked Reserve and Flóki Icelandic Single Malt Whisky both won bronze medals, scoring 71 and 69 points respectively, for their distinctive tasting notes that include fresh cereal and fruity flavors.

Eimverk Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The Eimverk Distillery tour offers an immersive and educational experience into Icelandic spirit-making. Located in Garðabær, just a short drive from downtown Reykjavík, Eimverk Distillery is Iceland’s first and only whisky distillery, known for its use of 100% Icelandic barley. The tour provides a deep dive into the production processes of their unique spirits, including Flóki whisky, Vor gin, and Víti brennivín.

Tour Highlights

1. Guided Distillery Tour: Led by knowledgeable distillers, guests are taken through the entire distillation process, exploring the equipment and techniques used to create Eimverk’s distinct spirits. The tour offers insights into both traditional methods and modern innovations in spirit-making.
2. Tasting Sessions: Visitors have the opportunity to sample a variety of Eimverk’s products. This includes:
   • Flóki Whisky: Iceland’s first whisky, available in several variants, including a unique sheep dung smoked version.
   • Vor Gin: A premium gin distilled with native Icelandic botanicals.
   • Víti Brennivín: A traditional Icelandic schnapps made from local herbs.
3. Cultural and Historical Insights: The tour also delves into Icelandic folklore and the cultural significance of the ingredients and methods used in the distillation process. This adds a rich narrative to the technical aspects of the tour.
4. Interactive Learning: Throughout the tasting, guides explain the flavors and characteristics to look for in each spirit, enhancing the sensory experience.

Flask & Barrel Review of Eimverk Distillery

As a whiskey collector who has toured many distilleries, Eimverk Distillery in Iceland offered a truly unique and memorable experience. Here’s my take on the visit:

First Impressions

From the moment I arrived at Eimverk, located just a short drive from downtown Reykjavík, I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. The distillery itself has a charming, rustic vibe that sets the stage for the adventure ahead.

The Tour

The guided tour was both informative and engaging. Our guide, who was clearly passionate about his craft, walked us through the entire distillation process, explaining the use of 100% Icelandic barley and traditional smoking methods using sheep dung. This added a fascinating cultural twist that I hadn’t encountered before.

Tasting Session

The highlight, of course, was the tasting session. We sampled Flóki whisky, which is Iceland’s first and only whisky, along with Vor gin and Víti brennivín. Each spirit had its own unique character, with Flóki standing out due to its smoky, earthy notes that were unlike any whisky I’ve tasted before. The gin and brennivín were equally impressive, showcasing the pure, fresh flavors of Icelandic botanicals.

Why 4.7 Stars?

I docked a slight points mainly due to the transportation logistics. While the distillery is easily accessible by taxi or bus, arranging transport can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. However, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by the overall quality of the experience.

What To Do Nearby Eimverk Distillery

1. Museum of Design and Applied Art (2.5 miles) Explore Icelandic design history through exhibitions of furniture, textiles, and product design. The museum showcases works from the early 20th century to contemporary times, highlighting Iceland’s unique design culture.
2. Hafnarfjörður (3.5 miles) Visit this charming town known for its Viking history and elf lore. Stroll through the picturesque harbor, explore local shops, and enjoy the vibrant art scene with numerous galleries and public art installations.
3. Perlan Museum (6 miles) Experience Iceland’s natural wonders at this innovative museum. The interactive exhibitions, including a glacier and ice cave, offer insights into the country’s geology and wildlife. The observation deck provides panoramic views of Reykjavík.
4. Reykjavik City Centre (7 miles) Discover the vibrant heart of Iceland’s capital. Wander through the historic streets, visit iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja, and enjoy a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture.
5. Heiðmörk Nature Reserve (8 miles) Ideal for nature lovers, this reserve offers hiking and biking trails through lava fields, forests, and lakes. It’s a great spot for a peaceful retreat and birdwatching, showcasing Iceland’s unique landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Eimverk Distillery?

Reykjavík Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Rauðarárstígur 8, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +354 562 0020.

Fiskfélagid – Fish Company: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +354 552 5300.

Matarkjallarinn – Foodcellar: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +354 558 0000.

What hotels are near Eimverk Distillery?

Hotel Laxnes: Located in Mosfellsbær, Iceland, Hotel Laxnes offers a cozy and welcoming environment with a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. The hotel features comfortable rooms with soft beds and warm blankets, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Blue House B&B: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Valhúsabraut 19, 170 Seltjarnarnes, Iceland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +354 772 0600.

Reykjavík Marina Residence: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Mýrargata 14, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +354 560 8000.