About Swedish Spirits

About Swedish Spirits
Vodka and aquavit are the two most important spirits in Sweden. Vodka has been a great success, thanks to the ultra clean style of these spirits and today, a great deal of Swedish vodka is exported; it is a best -seller in America. Given the demand in many countries for something new, there are now many flavored Swedish vodkas (cherry, vanilla, raspberry, etc.) that are also quite successful.

Aquavit - "water of life" - in Sweden is distilled from spices and herbs, usually caraway, although dill and anise are also added in some examples. While some are bottled a short time after distillation, others are barrel matured, giving them am amber of light golden color. Aquavit have at least a 37.5% alcohol level by EU law and some go as high as 45%. The clear versions are generally served ice cold in a small shot glass, while the barrel matured versions are often served at room temperature or warm in a snifter. Dryness levels - some are mildly sweet- depends on the manufacturer.

Top Picks for Sweden

Absolut Original Vodka
94 points
$19
Best Buy
Exceedingly light and clean, this Vodka holds the alcohol very well and leaves just a delicate impression of toasted grain on the finish.
94 points $19 Best Buy
Absolut Citron Vodka
94 points
$19
Best Buy
A delicate and neutral Vodka with little to no alcohol intrusion allowing the various shades of citrus to shine; a benchmark for the style.
94 points $19 Best Buy
Purity Connoisseur 51 Reserve Organic Vodka
93 points
$30
A sweet nose and peppery palate make this a solid option for fruity cocktails. Try this silky-smooth stunner in Cosmos, Vespers, Martinis and beyond.
Ceder’s Rose Non-Alcoholic Spirit
92 points
$23
Best Buy
A perfect sipper while relaxing and people watching from a Roman cafe.
92 points $23 Best Buy
Ceder’s Crisp Non-Alcoholic Spirit
92 points
$23
Best Buy
Clean and refreshing with loads of cucumber on the nose and palate.
92 points $23 Best Buy
Spirit of HVEN Organic Gin
92 points
$42
A warmly spicy gin that will shine with other rich ingredients; try in a negroni.
Spirit of HVEN MerCurious Corn Whisky
92 points
$60
A playful, nuanced corn whiskey that will be fun in cocktails.
Purity Spritz - Mediterranean Citrus Flavored Vodka
91 points
$27
A rock solid aperitif-like vodka with big fruit flavor and kisses of sweetness.
Purity Signature 34 Edition Organic Vodka
90 points
$27
A grain-forward, character-rich vodka that offers the vodka enthusiast and cocktail creative something fresh, fun and distinctive.
Spirit of HVEN Majas Raspberry Flavored Vodka
88 points
$14
Best Buy
All the artificial red fruits in a good way make this pleasing and easily incorporated into cocktails.
88 points $14 Best Buy