Join Emily Vikre of Vikre Distillery (Duluth, MN), Emil Åreng of FACIT Bar (Umeå, Sweden), Francesca Garcia of NATIFS (Minneapolis, MN) and Ethan Wilkins of Du Nord Social Spirits (Minneapolis, MN) for a roundtable discussion engaging with how our northern landscapes inform and inspire some of the most innovative beverages in the Swedish and American hospitality scenes. From foraged ingredients to homemade products, alcoholic beverages and the trends towards non-alcoholic options, this roundtable will open up the thought processes, inspiration, and challenges of creating uniquely northern beverages.

FACIT Bar opened in 2021 in the northern city of Umeå, Sweden, with a focus on using only Swedish ingredients, and has been recognized as one of Sweden’s top bars. For one week this fall, founder Emil Åreng will bring the spirit of FACIT to Minneapolis for many events, including this roundtable with industry experts, a five-course tasting dinner with Executive Chef Amalia Obermeier-Smith of FIKA café (Nov 1), and a public lecture on the Swedish beverage scene (Oct 30) at the American Swedish Institute.

Guests will start this roundtable event with a beverage developed by FIKA Café and guest bartender Emil Åreng, before hearing from the panelists and having an opportunity to ask questions. There will be time to mingle with the panelists and guests, plus enjoy a cash bar after the roundtable.