The Data

Category   Liqueur

Sub-Category   Aquavit

Origin   

Retail Price   $29.99

ABV   41.5%

Score   5 Stars/Supreme!

In the Glass

Brilliant, crystal clear.

The nose is filled with the scents of caraway and anise with supporting notes of dill seed, orange peel, clove, dried figs, and vanilla.

The palate echoes the nose delivering a rich spice and fruit core as the Sherry cask flavors come alive with accents of citrus and peppermint.

Medium-bodied with too many layers of fruit and spice to dissect with bright acidity aiding in the perfect balance.

Cool Factor

The Linie Aquavit has long been the gold standard of this intriguing category as is evident by its truck full of medals from international competitions.

Value Grade

This Scandinavian specialty is at the top of the quality pyramid so for roughly $30 retail we would call it a bargain.

Analysis

The spirit is made with a potato base distilled in pot stills, which is quite evident on the silky and textured palate. The primary flavors are caraway with a vibrant dose of aniseed. The deep golden color comes from Oloroso Sherry cask aging at sea aboard a vessel that crosses the equator twice. I would normally be tempted to call out such a dramatic marketing ploy but the resulting spirit is so lovely that I dare not suggest the slightest change of course.

How to Enjoy

Aquavit is most often consumed at holidays sipped slowly from a shot glass while served at room temperature. However, this nectar is finding its way into cocktails but it's a bold and tricky flavor to handle. We like it neat, after dinner or with smoked fish.