Hellstrøm Norwegian Summer Aquavit 50 cl 40%

A breeze off the Norwegian southern coast, bottled. Seaweed, myrtle and heather meet a touch of fennel, light and clear as a summer evening.

The Expert's Description

Hellstrøm Norsk Sommer Akvavit is a light Norwegian summer aquavit at 40% ABV.

For this version, Eivind Hellstrøm gathers his botanicals along the southern Norwegian coast: seaweed, myrtle, heather, fennel flowers, aniseed and caraway from Norwegian nature all feature in the blend. Unlike the classic Hellstrøm aquavit, Sommer is built to be lighter and fresher, skipping the heavy sherry character in favour of something suited to the bright months and to a table of shellfish.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Fresh, reminiscent of a mild Norwegian summer breeze, with seaweed, herbs and fennel.

Palate

Light and crisp with a hint of sea salt, followed by fennel, aniseed and caraway.

Finish

Short and refreshing with a light herbal close.

Specifications

Name: Hellstrøm Norsk Sommer Akvavit
Country: Norway
Type: Aquavit
ABV: 40%
Size: 50 CL
Serving suggestion: Serve chilled with shellfish, fish, and even sushi.

Flavour Profile

Seaweed · Fennel · Caraway · Fresh

Did You Know?

Sommer is one of the few aquavits to use seaweed as a botanical, harvested along the southern Norwegian coast for a light, saline character.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hellstrøm Norsk Sommer Akvavit

What makes Sommer different from the classic Hellstrøm aquavit?

Sommer is lighter and fresher, without sherry cask ageing, and is spiced with coastal botanicals such as seaweed, myrtle and heather.

Which botanicals are used?

Seaweed, myrtle, heather, fennel flowers, aniseed and caraway from Norwegian nature, among others.

Who is behind the aquavit?

Eivind Hellstrøm, television chef and owner of a two-star Michelin restaurant.

What food does it pair with?

It is built for shellfish and fish, and also works well with sushi.

How should it be served?

Best served chilled, ideally in a small aquavit glass alongside the food.

Is the aquavit cask aged?

No, Sommer is made to be light and fresh without heavy cask ageing.

When does it suit best?

It is designed for the bright summer months and light, fresh dishes.

What is its most unusual ingredient?

Seaweed from the southern Norwegian coast gives the aquavit its distinctive light, saline edge.