Ängabackens Björksoda

Ängabacken's Björksoda - nature's bubble from the heart of Småland

In the Småland village of Sonarp, not far from Smålandstorpet, something completely unique is produced - Ängabackens Björksoda, a non-alcoholic sparkling drink made from pure birch sap. Here, the tradition of the century, modern craftsmanship and a genuine love of nature meet in a bottle that bubbles with both taste and history.

If you are staying at Smålandstorpet and want to experience something that is both local, natural and luxurious - then an excursion to Sonarp is a memorable part of your stay.

Read more about Björksodan here.

What is Ängabackens Björksoda?

Ängabacken's Björksoda is a non-alcoholic alternative to wine - elegant, fresh and naturally sparkling. The drink is handcrafted on the farm in Sonarp from sap from birch trees in Småland. The birch sap is collected for a few weeks each spring, when winter releases its grip and the sap begins to rise in the trees. The harvest period is so short that it often runs out before the leaves burst.

The juice is fermented in two stages: first in tank, then in bottle. It is during the second fermentation in the bottle that the bubbles are created, naturally, just like in the production of champagne. The result? A dry, soft sparkling drink with a fresh taste of forest, spring and life.

A tradition with deep roots

Draining birch sap is not a new idea. In Sweden, birch sap has been used since the 17th century, perhaps even longer. It used to be called 'poor man's milk' and was drunk as an important vitamin supplement at the end of winter. But it was from Eastern Europe that the knowledge of fermenting the sap into a bubbly drink was brought. Ängabacken's version is a tribute to this ancient method - but with a modern and Småland touch.

Each bottle is a work of art. After bottling and fermentation, the birch sap is stored in cellars for at least a year, giving the drink its complexity and soft, natural bubbles. It is unpasteurized and therefore contains a natural sediment - a reminder of the drink's living origin.

Mealtime drink, pre-dinner drink or exclusive cocktail base

Ängabacken's Björksoda is a versatile drink suitable for many occasions. Serve it cool, at 6-10°C, with cheese and charcuterie, with spicy food or with fine seafood dishes. It is also a beautiful and flavorful non-alcoholic alternative for aperitifs, and is often used as a base for exclusive cocktails.

With its dry and fresh character, it is appreciated by food lovers and curious connoisseurs alike. It is not surprising that it has also attracted attention outside Sweden's borders.

Noted in Berlin - but with roots in Sonarp

When Sweden presented its food crafts at the world's largest food fair, Grüne Woche in Berlin in 2025, Ängabacken's Björksoda was one of the selected entries. It was the strong interest from German guests that prompted the founders to invest in food tourism - and today the farm has become a popular destination for both Swedish and German tourists.

Behind the business is Martina Petersson, who has developed a drink that is equal parts innovation, tradition and passion. And despite the fact that the drink has taken its place on the international stage, it is clear that the heart remains in Småland.

Visit the farm shop - a spring feeling all year round

Ängabacken's farm shop is open from Wednesday to Sunday and offers tastings, as well as the opportunity to buy different vintages of Björksodan to take home. There's always a sense of spring here - and it's not unusual to be greeted by founder Martina Peterson herself when you walk in.

The shop is surrounded by forest and greenery, and it is great to sit down outside or inside to enjoy the environment - a quiet moment with the forest's own bubbles in the glass.

Opening hours (may vary during public holidays)

• Wednesday-Friday: 10:00-18:00

• Saturday: 10:00-15:00

• Sunday: 12:00-15:00

Immerse yourself - book a tasting or guided tour

For those who want to learn more about the production, tradition and history of the farm, there are several different experiences to book. You can follow the saw's path from birch to bottle, taste different vintages and enjoy Småland tapas that complement the drink in a harmonious way. Some tours are also conducted with a German host, perfect for our visitors from the continent.

The experiences are personalized and held in small groups - a chance to get really close to the craft and the people behind the product. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or perhaps on your own, it's an experience like no other.

Discover the unique Småland - with Smålandstorpet as a starting point

Staying at Smålandstorpet means being close to the genuine Småland - the silence, the forest, the crafts and the local flavor. Ängabacken's Björksoda is a brilliant example of this. Here you not only get to taste something unique, but also meet a living tradition and a place where the forest and people interact with respect and care.

Welcome to book your accommodation at Smålandstorpet - your peaceful base for discovering tasteful and natural experiences like Ängabackens Björksoda.

Photographer of the photo: Mattias Bokinge