The Story Behind Underberg: A World-Famous Digestif
Underberg took years to perfect, but Hubert Underberg successfully created an herbal liqueur that combines the healing properties of herbs with a deliciously bitter taste. The recipe, still in use today, is a closely guarded secret and contains over 40 different herbs sourced from around the globe.
The Unique Packaging
One of Underberg’s most recognizable features is its unique packaging. Each bottle is a small 20 ml portion wrapped in paper, giving it a distinct charm. This size is no coincidence. According to Underberg, 20 ml is the ideal amount to aid digestion after a meal. The bottle is also easy to transport and enjoy on the go, which has been a significant selling point since its inception.
The Recipe: The Secret Behind the Taste
Although the exact recipe is a well-kept secret, it is known that Underberg is made from herbs extracted using a special process called Semper Idem. This Latin phrase means "always the same," reflecting Underberg's commitment to delivering the same high quality in every bottle. The herbal liqueur is aged for several months in oak barrels, which helps develop its rich and complex flavor profile.
The recipe has remained a family secret, passed down from generation to generation, and is still the same as the one Hubert Underberg created in 1846.
A Global Phenomenon
What started as a local digestif in Germany has now spread worldwide. Today, Underberg is exported to over 100 countries and is a staple at dinner tables in many homes. Particularly in Europe, Underberg enjoys a strong presence, often used as a traditional end to meals, especially in German-speaking countries.
Products and Variants
While the original Underberg digestif remains the flagship product, the company has expanded its range over time. This includes various types of bitters and gift sets that are popular among collectors. Despite these additions, Underberg stays true to its core values of quality and authentic taste, which is why the original recipe remains the cornerstone of their offerings.
Underberg Collectibles and Loyalty Program
A fun feature of Underberg is its loyalty program, where customers can collect bottle caps and exchange them for different prizes. This program has added an element of fun to purchasing and enjoying Underberg. Additionally, Underberg bottles have become popular collectibles due to their unique design and historical value. A collaboration with jewelry designer Christina Hembo has even led to a unique series of accessories—check them out here.
Underberg’s Role in Modern Gastronomy
Today, Underberg continues to play an important role in gastronomy, both as a digestif and as an ingredient in various cocktails. Bartenders and chefs worldwide appreciate the deep flavor profile of this herbal liqueur and often use it to add a bitter and spicy touch to their culinary creations. This versatility ensures that Underberg remains relevant in both classic and contemporary contexts. Do you love experimenting with alcohol in your dishes? Then we recommend our very own cookbook Mad Med Promiller #2 by Jan Ohrt.
The Future of Underberg
More than 175 years after Hubert Underberg created his famous herbal liqueur, it remains as relevant today as ever. With a strong presence in the European and global markets and a growing focus on health and wellness, Underberg continues to evolve and attract new generations of fans.
Underberg is more than just a drink—it is a piece of history, a symbol of tradition, and a tribute to the healing power of nature’s herbs.
Underberg Herbtini is an exciting new creation that combines the well-known digestive properties of Underberg with a modern twist. Known for its rich herbal taste and unique profile, Underberg has been a post-meal favorite for decades. Herbtini reintroduces this traditional digestif as a refreshing cocktail, making it more accessible to a contemporary audience.
The drink blends Underberg's characteristic herbal notes with lighter, fresher ingredients such as gin or vodka, a splash of vermouth, and citrus accents like lemon zest. This combination strikes the perfect balance between the rich, bitter herbs of Underberg and the smooth, fresh tones of the other ingredients.
This innovation marks a fresh chapter for the iconic Underberg brand and is sure to appeal to both traditional fans and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
