The story of Bareksten and how Bergen became world famous for gin

Did you know that the world's best gin is from Bergen? At the brewery OSS CRAFT Distillery, world-class spirits are made.

It is of course Bareksten we are talking about. The gin is named after the entrepreneur himself, Stig Bareksten, who was also one of the founders of “Det Norske Brenneri” - known for Norway's first whiskey.

He started OSS CRAFT in 2015, wanting to build his own brand, Bareksten. He has indeed succeeded. In 2017, Bareksten Botanical Gin won double gold in the "unofficial world championship in gin". Since then the gin has won more than 30 awards.

  Photo: Bareksten/Tommy Jensen

Bareksten Botanical gin - A taste out of the ordinary

The black Bareksten bottles are easily recognized. But in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, where the Bergen gin stole the show, everything is decided by blind testing. In other words, it was the quality and taste that charmed the judges. And the coveted "double gold" means that all 42 (!) judges gave the gin top marks.

Depending on who you ask, you will hear that Bareksten Botanical Gin tastes fresh, with a touch of juniper, fruit and spices. It is dry and complex, and has a floral scent of citrus and cinnamon. But even if you think gin tastes like gin, there is no doubt that Bareksten has become a recognized brand on the international stage.

  Photo: Bareksten/Tommy Jensen

Where can I taste Bareksten gin?

OSS CRAFT is rarely open for visits, but Stig Bareksten himself is often out and about. He frequently puts on gin tasting and other Bareksten-related events in the Bergen area. And the bottles themselves? You can of course find them in your local liquor store. And in the duty-free shop at Flesland Airport - of course.

Bareksten gin tastes even better with good food. Read more about Bergen - City of Gastronomy.

Come to Bergen for the gin festival!

Are you above average interested in gin? Then you’re in for a treat! Bergen has its very own Gin Festival, held for the first time in 2019. It was such a great success that it called for repetition. Here you will find distillers, good stories, other gin nerds - and lots of gin. 

Gin is not the only alcoholic beverage Bergen is becoming famous for. Read about the local beer here.

Check out our overview of bars and pubs in Bergen.