Icelandic Beer—Thule
Icelandic beer has a heavy, extremely hoppy taste, similar to Carlsberg. Locals prefer Viking Gullfoss over Egill’s two to one, but many Americans prefer Thule, which is the most accessible of the local beers.
International Beer—Cobra from India.
You can’t buy it everywhere in the world, but at the Kringlan Vínbuð, pick up this outstandingly rich pilsner. It comes in a small can, but people will still respect you, cause you’re drinking Cobra.
Malt Liquor—Faxe 10
If you miss Olde English 800 or Mickeys, or you just want to get angry, grab the black can of Faxe. It’s expensive, as beers are rated according to their alcohol content, but it also takes a long time to drink, so perhaps that’s value.
French Wine—La Fôret
The best deal in town, a classic French Pinot for 1490 ISK.
Cheap Wine—Black Opal Chardoney
An Australian wine priced to go, 1190 ISK.
Brennivín
There is only one. The traditional Icelandic spirit is consumed in the winter over heavy foods, typically. But tourists should try it. Though beware, it is strong.
Cognac—Courvoisier V.S.O.P. Exclusif
The finest drink in the hip hop world ain’t too popular in Iceland. So you can drink and pass the Courvoisier at 2320 ISK for 350 ml. Seriously, this is a deal.
Whiskey—Jameson
All the superstars and musicians in town drink Jack Daniels. But Jameson sells at a much lower price for outstanding blended Irish whiskey. There simply is no cheap bourbon in this country, so if you didn’t bring it yourself, give up.
Rum—Havana Club
For Americans, Cuban rum is risque. For everyone else, it’s a great liquor at a decent price.
Landi (Moonshine)—Don’t do this.
Once upon a time, many boys and girls in this country drank moonshine. Then they went blind. Still popular in Eastern Iceland, beyond the health risks associated with drinking something made in a bathtub, there is a severe social stigma against landi. And the blind thing is true. It also causes brain damage. The unfunny kind.