Lysholm Linie Matured at Sea Norwegian Aquavit 70 cl 41,5%

Twice the casks cross the equator, rocking in a cargo hold. The sea does what no warehouse can: it gives time a rolling, restless pulse.

The Expert's Description

Lysholm Linie Matured at Sea is a Norwegian aquavit at 41.5% ABV, matured according to the classic Linie tradition.

The aquavit is distilled from Norwegian potatoes on pot stills with a spice blend led by caraway and star anise. It then rests in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks that are sent on a months-long sea voyage, crossing the equator twice before returning home. The tradition dates back to 1805, when the Lysholm family shipped a cargo of potato aquavit to the East Indies; interest there was limited, so the cargo sailed home again, and it was only then that the voyage was found to have dramatically improved the flavour. Every drop of Linie has made the same journey ever since.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Caraway and star anise lead, with finer touches of vanilla and sherry.

Palate

Unusually smooth and well balanced, with spiced warmth and a clear cask influence from the sherry.

Finish

Long and calm, closing on spice and oak.

Specifications

Name: Lysholm Linie Matured at Sea
Distillery: Arcus (Anora Norway)
Country: Norway
Type: Aquavit
ABV: 41.5%
Size: 70 CL
Maturation: Matured in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks during a sea voyage where the casks cross the equator twice
Serving suggestion: Serve chilled with Christmas food, herring, rich fish and game.

Flavour Profile

Caraway · Star Anise · Sherry · Cask-driven

Did You Know?

Each bottle of Linie historically states which ship carried the aquavit and when it crossed the equator, a tradition dating back to the first accidental discovery in 1805.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lysholm Linie Matured at Sea

What does Matured at Sea mean?

The aquavit matures in casks sent by ship, crossing the equator twice before returning to Norway.

Why do the casks cross the equator twice?

Because the ship sails out and back, and both equator crossings form part of the maturation.

Where does the tradition come from?

From 1805, when the Lysholm family sent aquavit to the East Indies and discovered by chance that the voyage improved the flavour.

Which spices dominate the taste?

Caraway and star anise lead, supported by vanilla and sherry.

What is the aquavit matured in?

Spanish Oloroso sherry casks that travel along on the sea voyage.

What food does it pair with?

Christmas food, herring, rich fish and game.

How should it be served?

Chilled, ideally in a small aquavit glass.

Who produces the aquavit?

Arcus under Anora Norway, which is behind the whole Lysholm family.