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Aquavit is a Scandinavian liqueur with a high alcohol content, traditionally made with cumin seeds. It can be served cold with appetizers or heavy meals, and is also used in mixed drinks. The drink can be sold raw or aged, and is available in different flavors.
Aquavit, sometimes spelled Akvavit or Akevitt, depending on the country of origin, is a Scandinavian liqueur. The alcohol content of extremely strong distilled spirits can range between 42-45%, and the drink is usually served with appetizers or as part of a heavy holiday meal. Like many regional liqueurs, Aquavit has loyal fans in the countries that produce it, but other people around the world sometimes don’t find the flavor to their liking. The main flavor is, of course, the heavy distilled alcohol, but for people who aren’t fans of the traditionally blended cumin seeds, the finish can be unpleasant.
The first recorded reference to Aquavit was in Norway in 1531. The name comes from the Latin aqua, meaning water, and vitae, or life. Many national drinks are known by some variation of this title, which can lead to some confusion. The liqueur is made from a mash of potatoes or cereals, traditionally fermented with cumin seeds. Aquavit made with fennel, dill, anise or coriander is also available, but cumin seeds are usually included for a classic flavor boost.
Depending on the country of origin, Aquavit is sold raw and unaged, or it is sold in aged form. Norway, in particular, seems to prefer aged Aquavit, and vintages over 12 years old are available for sale in that nation. The color varies from clear, indicating that the alcohol is fresh or has been aged in old oak barrels, to dark brown, suggesting long aging in young oak. Aging in oak certainly alters the flavor of Aquavit, making it slightly less raw and intense.
Traditionally, Aquavit is served cold. Drinkers can take shots of the distilled alcohol or savor a larger glass. It is often served with appetizers, especially fish, and some Scandinavians joke that Aquavit helps the fish swim in the stomach. It is also served with heavy meals, in the belief that the fiery liquor will aid digestion.
Usually served plain, Aquavit can also be used in mixed drinks. A variety of mixers can be used with Aquavit, including grenadine, lemon, bitters, juice and sodas. Aquavit is also said to complement the flavor of high quality beer and the drinks are sometimes mixed or drunk in tandem. Purists believe the Aquavit’s flavor will be overshadowed by the heavier beer, while other consumers aren’t so concerned about this, or see it as a benefit.
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