The article discusses the 'Grønn genser', a traditional drink in Oslo made from beer and cheap port wine, once popular among the working class but now largely forgotten.
In a visit to the bar 'Valka', Rødt politician Mímir Kristjánsson discovers the drink known as the 'Grønn genser', which is a mixture of beer and cheap port wine. This beverage, which gained popularity in the 1930s, was named after the green labels of inexpensive port wine, with 'genser' alluding to the warming effect of alcohol. The drink was once dubbed 'Oslo’s national drink', reflecting its roots in the working class culture of the city.
The article highlights the historical significance of the 'Grønn genser', noting its connection to notable figures who frequented Oslo's bars in the 1930s, including German leader Willy Brandt and Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky. Despite its rich history and cultural ties, even well-known politicians like Kristjánsson are unfamiliar with the drink in contemporary society, raising questions about changing drinking cultures and the fading of social traditions.
Rundown by bartender Stojan Lucic, who reminisces about serving the drink as far back as 1998, the piece suggests that the 'Grønn genser' is not just a beverage but a symbol of a bygone era. It reflects the socioeconomic changes in Oslo, as new generations may overlook traditional drinks in favor of modern alternatives. The narrative serves as a reminder of how local heritage can vanish over time if not celebrated and preserved.
