Aquavit

Aquavit
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The name of the Scandinavian countries, especially in the very popular Spirits , by Aqua vitae (Latin for water of life) are derived. In the Middle Ages, Aquavit still wine, later of potatoes and only since the end of the 17th Century, made from corn. At that time, flavorings such as juniper berries, malt, honey, dill and caraway were used for flavoring. Gradually, however, has prevailed as the dominant flavoring cumin. One of the first producer of aquavit was a native of the former Prussia Henius Isidore. He founded in 1846 in Aalborg, the foundation of today's world famous Aquavitkultur in Denmark , it was the birth of the legendary brand "Aalborg Taffel Akvavits". The addition of "Danske" (Danish) is in fact today a protected designation of origin.

The aquavit is distilled from grain or potatoes, in the second distillation are herbs and spices, but the essential oils being prohibited. The main component of cumin, in addition also be Anise , coriander, fennel, use cinnamon, cloves and dill seeds. Some varieties of dill flavor is even decisive. The cumin note unfolds best in an alcoholic strength of 40 to 45%. In Italy, "Aquavit" is the term for all bright, clear spirits. In Austria and Germany, an alcohol content of at least 35% vol, in Switzerland of at least 40% vol prescribed by law. Known German brands such Bommerlunder and Maltese cross. Aquavit is served ice cold and drunk.