On a stretch of Norwegian coastline, a Michelin chef blends spices with sherry oak and sea air. The result settles golden in the glass, ready for the table.
The Expert's Description
Hellstrøm Norsk Akvavit is a Norwegian aquavit at 40% ABV.
Behind the recipe stands Eivind Hellstrøm, a television chef and owner of a two-star Michelin restaurant. He built the spice blend himself from caraway, anise, star anise, citrus, orange, fennel, coriander, juniper and cardamom, macerated in spirit and water for several days before the aquavit is distilled on pot stills. It then rests for 12 months in new and old 500-litre Oloroso sherry casks, giving the spirit its golden colour and round, complex character.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Clean and delicate with caraway, sweet liquorice and fennel, joined by dried citrus peel, Oloroso sherry and a touch of clove, vanilla and sea air.
Palate
Fresh and fruity with a full, almost creamy texture. Citrus fruit, anise and a hint of sea salt meet dry sherry, while the alcohol stays soft and well integrated.
Finish
Long, led by caraway and citrus that fade slowly.
Specifications
Name: Hellstrøm Norsk Akvavit
Country: Norway
Type: Aquavit
ABV: 40%
Size: 70 CL
Serving suggestion: Serve chilled with Christmas and Easter classics, seafood and shellfish.
Flavour Profile
Caraway · Citrus · Sherry · Spiced
Did You Know?
The producer behind Hellstrøm has been named the world's best aquavit producer twice since the award was first handed out in 2019.
