Yes, Absinthe is legal in Denmark, but its production, sale, and import are tightly controlled under national and EU regulations. The Danish Food Agency enforces compliance with EU spirits legislation, including thujone limits, while local municipalities regulate retail distribution. Recent 2026 amendments to the Danish Alcohol Act further restrict high-proof absinthe sales to licensed vendors.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Denmark
- Thujone Content: Absinthe must contain ≤10 mg/kg of thujone, aligning with EU Regulation 884/2014. Products exceeding this threshold are prohibited.
- Alcohol Strength: Retail absinthe cannot exceed 45% ABV unless sold in duty-free zones or by licensed producers with special permits.
- Licensing Requirements: Distributors and importers must hold a Danish spirits license, issued by the Danish Food Agency, which verifies compliance with EU and national standards.
Absinthe production in Denmark requires adherence to EU spirits definitions (Regulation 2019/787), mandating natural botanical distillation and prohibition of artificial colorants. The Danish Tax Agency monitors import volumes, imposing duties on shipments exceeding personal exemption limits (currently 9L for spirits). Municipalities may impose additional zoning restrictions on absinthe sales outlets, particularly in urban areas like Copenhagen. Failure to comply risks fines or confiscation under the Danish Marketing Practices Act.