Review of Aalborg Akvavit
Posted By Ken Sunday, 12 September 2010 10:57
Since the Liquor Review section of this site is in desperate need of content, and because this was a strange one that I was able to enjoy over the 4th weekend this year, I figured it best to get a new liquor review up. I can't remember the last time I wrote a liquor review, as I'm not usually a huge fan of liquor, but there's a chance you will start to see more coming in the near future. As I said, I had this one at a 4th of July party this year. I kept the notes and just didn't get around to writing it, so read on and see what I thought of Aalborg Akvavit.
Ken's Review
Taste: B+ Akvavit is a pretty bold little spirit. The aroma from it has a strange reminiscence of pickles. The initial taste hits your tongue smoothly, then explodes with a strong caraway and mint flavor to it. Then it slowly settles back and leaves a cool mint flavor in your mouth for a little while. I had this as a shot from the bottle which had been stored in the freezer. I could see this amping a mixed drink pretty well in taste. Overall, not bad, and one I would definitely have again.
Packaging: B- Not really much to talk about with the packaging on Akvavit. Comes in a slightly green-tinted bottle, and has an oval logo in the center with Aalborg on top, and Akvavit on the bottom dominating the label. Denmark is also highlighted, as this is where it is made. Pretty basic, but no reason not to pick up a bottle.
Value: B+ A 750ml bottle of Akvavit will run you anywhere between $15 and $25, depending on where you find it. Some places charge even higher than that for some reason, but if you can find it near the $15 range, it is not a bad value unless this is just one that you can't personally stomach drinking. You would have to be a real lover of it to give $25, in my opinion, and if you find it priced higher than that, hold out because you will get ripped off.
Drunkeness: A- Akvavit has a 40% (80 Proof) alcohol content. It's just enough to get the job done if you are looking to get lit on it. I am sure that a night bingeing on this could create a really horrible next morning. The thought of a minty, caraway spirit coming back up sounds pretty rough, and not something I would recommend. Definitely enjoy this one in moderation.
Overall: B+ As I said, I am not a fan of most liquors, but this one was surprising. One or two at the party did not like it, but the overall reception was pretty good, and for getting to try two shots of it for free (and get a review out of the deal) I can't complain. I'd be interested to try this in a mixed drink. Definitely ensure that you enjoy this ice cold, either from the freezer or on the rocks, because I'm sure this one isn't that great warm.