Aqvavit Sour
2 oz aquavit
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
1 egg white
Combine all ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
Nordic Negroni
1 oz aquavit
1 oz Campari
1 oz sweet vermouth
Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
Dill & Cucumber Aquavit Cocktail
2 oz aquavit
1 oz fresh cucumber juice
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/4 oz dill-infused simple syrup
For the dill-infused simple syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and heat until sugar is dissolved. Add a handful of fresh dill and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain and store in the fridge.
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until well chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cucumber slice and fresh dill sprig.
What Can Aquavit be Mixed With?
Aquavit is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with a variety of ingredients to create delicious cocktails. Here are some common mixers and ingredients that can be used to mix with aquavit:
Citrus: Aquavit pairs well with citrus juices, such as lemon, lime, and grapefruit, to create refreshing cocktails like the Aqvavit Sour.
Vermouth: Aquavit can be mixed with vermouth to create a Nordic Negroni, a spin on the classic Negroni cocktail.
Ginger beer: Aquavit and ginger beer make a great combination for a refreshing and spicy cocktail. Add a splash of lime juice for extra acidity.
Tonic water: Mix aquavit with tonic water and a squeeze of lime for a classic Scandinavian G&T.
Cucumber: The freshness of cucumber pairs well with aquavit, making it a great ingredient for summertime cocktails.
Herbal liqueurs: Aquavit can be mixed with herbal liqueurs such as Chartreuse, St. Germain, or Cointreau to add depth and complexity to a cocktail.
Bitters: Adding a dash of bitters, such as Angostura or Peychaud’s, can help balance the flavors in an aquavit cocktail.
Overall, aquavit is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with a wide range of ingredients to create delicious cocktails.
Fast Facts About Aquavit
What is Aquavit?
Aquavit is a Scandinavian distilled spirit that is typically made from grains or potatoes and flavored with herbs and spices such as caraway, dill, coriander, fennel, or anise. The word “aquavit” is derived from the Latin words aqua vitae, meaning “water of life.” It is commonly consumed as a traditional celebratory drink in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and other Scandinavian countries.
What is the Proof of Aquavit?
The proof of aquavit can vary depending on the brand and the specific recipe. However, most aquavits are around 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), although some may be higher or lower.
What are the Different Types of Aquavit?
There are many different types of aquavit, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some common types include:
- Danish aquavit: Typically flavored with caraway and dill, and sometimes with other spices like coriander or fennel.
- Swedish aquavit: Often flavored with caraway, anise, and fennel.
- Norwegian aquavit: Typically flavored with caraway and sometimes with dill, coriander, or juniper.
What is the Difference Between Aquavit and Other Types of Distilled Spirits?
The main difference between aquavit and other types of distilled spirits like vodka or gin is the addition of herbs and spices during the distillation process. Aquavit is also typically aged for a shorter period of time than other spirits, and the flavors of the herbs and spices are meant to be more prominent in the finished product.
What is the Best Brand of Aquavit?
The best brand of aquavit will vary depending on personal taste and preference. Some popular brands include Linie Aquavit, Aalborg Akvavit, and O.P. Anderson Aquavit. It is recommended to try different brands and styles to find the one that suits your taste buds the best.