It looks like your browser is out of date.
To use all features of KLM.com safely, we recommend that you update your browser, or that you choose a different one. Continuing with this version may result in parts of the website not being displayed properly, if at all. Also, the security of your personal information is better safeguarded with an updated browser.
Beer in Copenhagen
Beer has a 5000-year history in Denmark and is therefore closely tied up with Danish culture and history. The Vikings were crazy about it: they drank practically nothing but light beer, which was healthier than water at the time. Beer brewing continues to flourish in Denmark today and the average Dane drinks 80 litres a year.
During lunch, after work and in the company of friends, the Danes love their beer. Go for a ‘store øl’ – a half-litre glass – or take a more subtle approach with a ‘lille’; Danish beer is served in all sizes. The most renowned breweries are Carlsberg and Tuborg, which are famous abroad as well as within the country. But don’t hesitate to try a lesser-known specialty beer from the local microbreweries – also very tasty.
From dark wheat beer to lager
The first brewers’ guild in Copenhagen was established in 1525. It consisted of a few local brewers who supplied both the people and the king and his army with their products. This was quite a job as the daily ration was some 10 litres per person. The traditional drink – and until the late 19th century, the only drink – was hvidtøl. While this means ‘white beer’, it actually is fairly dark due to the roasted malt.
In 1838, J.C. Jacobsen presented a Bavarian beer to the Danish king. This was brewed according to a modern process, had a finer finish and could be preserved longer. It was a success and led to the establishment of the Carlsberg brewery just outside Copenhagen in 1847. A few years later, Tuborg began the large-scale production of lager and this pale beer type is currently the most popular in Denmark.
