Aquavit is a distilled potato and grain spirit produced in Scandinavia. It is produced by pressure cooking of potatoes to reduce them to starch, and the combined with malted grains and fermented. The resulting alcohol is double-distilled and filtered through charcoal, and then flavored with anise seed, fennel seed, dill, cumin seeds, caraway seeds and bitter oranges.
Word origins
Aquavit is derived from the Latin aqua vitae, meaning “water of life”. This Latin phrase is ultimately the source of eau de vie and whiskey as well.
How to serve
Aquavit should be served like a good vodka: ice-cold and neat, in a serving no larger than a shot glass. It should be stored in the freezer.
Aquavit can also be used in mixed drinks and makes an interesting variation on a Bloody Mary.
Pairing
Aquavit is a traditional part of the Swedish smörgåsbord, along with bread, fish (usually herring), and cheese. Aquavit has a savory quality that compliments salty foods well. It can also be used as an aperitif, sometimes served with a beer chaser.