Aquavit

Scandinavia’s traditional spirit — also spelled akvavit — distilled from fermented grain or potato mash and flavoured with aromatic botanicals, above all caraway and dill. It is the festive spirit of Norway, Denmark and Sweden, served chilled alongside herring, cured fish and Christmas fare; some Norwegian styles mature in oak casks shipped across the equator and back, the voyage claimed to smooth the spirit. EU spirit-drink regulations define aquavit’s production and labelling, including its characteristic botanical flavouring. The name derives from aqua vitae — water of life — the medieval term for distilled spirits.