Appelsín: Iceland's Beloved Orange Soda with a Sassy Sprinkle of Heritage

If you're on a mission to find Iceland's unique tastes, you'll need to try Iceland's beloved orange soda Appelsín—a bubbly orange pop that's sweet, tangy, and rich in Icelandic culture. Appelsín is more than a hip beverage, it's an icon of celebration, nostalgia, and Icelandic heritage.

What is Appelsín in Iceland?

Appelsín is a fizzy orange soft drink that has been quenching Icelanders' thirst for generations. It's produced in Iceland, by highly regarded Icelandic beverage production  company, which has been bottling this sweet citrus drink since the 1950s. So Appelsín is absolutely Icelandic and deeply rooted in the country's food culture.

Apelsín soda is so much more than orange soda—it's a cultural phenomenon. Applesin is Iceland's version of orange soda, it's a non-alcoholic, bubbly soft drink with a unique flavor. 

What is the meaning of Appelsín?

In Icelandic, "appelsín" simply means "orange", a Danish and German-derived word.

What Does Appelsín Taste Like?

Appelsín has a refreshing, sweet-tart taste that's bursting with bright citrus flavor. Expect a zesty, orange-forward profile balanced by smooth sweetness and a gentle effervescence. Unlike many overly sweet orange sodas, Appelsín tastes more refined—less artificial, more natural, and fruit-forward. Its distinctive flavor makes it stand out in a global market of soft drinks—and once you've tasted it, you can't help but remember.

An Authentic Icelandic Soda Drink – Appelsín & Malt

Appelsín is commonly consumed in one of the most authentic of manners over Christmas—by mixing it with Egils Malt to create jólaöl or "Christmas ale." Also a tradition to drink during Easter holiday and then it is known as Páskaöl.

This festive drink is a classic but simple mix of Appelsín and Egils Malt Extrakt (a sweet, dark, non-alcoholic malt beverage). Combined, they create a smooth, malty, slightly citrus-flavored soda.

Is Malt & Appelsín drink alcoholic?

No, Malt og Appelsin,or jólaöl is entirely non-alcoholic and suitable for all ages. Malt on its own contains a small amount of alcohol (about 1%), but when mixed with Appelsín, a carbonated orange soda, the drink is still considered non-alcoholic. It’s enjoyed by children, adults and families across Iceland, with many people having their own secret ratio for the perfect blend.

So if you’re wondering what a traditional Icelandic soda drink is, look no further than Appelsín—and try it with malt for an authentic Icelandic Christmas experience.

Appelsin is more Than Just a Soda

Wherever it's consumed, whether at birthday parties, on the go in a cooler, or during summer barbecues, Apelsín is at the heart of the Icelandic nation. Its familiar taste is purely nostalgic, often recalling memories of childhood and family tradition. It has been savored by generations, and as such, it is a true symbol of Icelandic heritage.

Where to Buy Icelandic Appelsín Online from Iceland

Missing a touch of Iceland at home and wondering wheater or where you can buy Appelsín, the Icelandic orange soda? You can get it all over Iceland and you can even buy it online at The Icelandic Store. The Icelandic Store distributes the product globally.

For visitors who travel to Iceland, don't miss out on trying it. And dont forget to try mixing it with Egils Malt. It's a delicious and convenient way to experience Icelandic culture.
The next time you're in Iceland, skip the cola and pick up an orange!