Denmark is one of three Scandinavian countries (along with Norway and Sweden) in northern Europe. Wedged between the Baltic and North seas, at an average latitude of 56 degrees north, Denmark sees very little of the warm, dry, sunny weather in which the grape vine thrives. The nation does nonetheless produce a small quantity of wine, mostly by die-hard wine amateurs and made from vine varieties specifically bred to brave the local climate.
One of the few advantages of being at this high latitude is that the summer days are lengthened, lasting from 4am until 10pm, although few vines survive the cold winters to enjoy this extended sunshine. Those that do are found in greenhouses, or occasionally climbing up south-facing walls which retain sufficient heat during the day to help the vine through the night. New varieties such as Madeleine Angevine (which is also used by winemakers in England) and Orion are preferred in Danish vineyards, as they are sufficiently early ripening to achieve full flavor during the short warmth of summer.
In the absence of grape vines, the vast majority of alcoholic beverages made in Denmark are beers and spirits. Cider, mead and other fermented drinks made of apples or honey are also produced here.
