Brännvin is an old Nordic term for distilled spirits, primarily produced in the Netherlands and Scandinavia. It is typically colorless, with an alcohol content ranging from 30% to 38%, and can be plain or flavored with herbs and spices.
How it is made
Brännvin is distilled from various raw materials including potatoes, grain, or historically, wood cellulose. The production process results in a spirit that is usually colorless, though it can be flavored with herbs and spices such as caraway in the Icelandic brennivín.
History
Brännvin has been produced in Sweden since the late 15th century. Initially made from grain, potatoes became the dominant ingredient from the early 19th century. In the 1960s, unflavored Swedish brännvin began to be referred to as vodka, with brands like Explorer Vodka and Absolut Vodka emerging under this name.
Types and styles
Brännvin is mainly divided into unspiced and spiced varieties. The Icelandic brennivín, flavored with caraway, is considered the country's signature distilled beverage. In the US, a bitter version called beskbrännvin or Jeppson's Malört is produced, using wormwood as an ingredient.
How it is served
Traditionally, a small glass of brännvin is called a snaps, often accompanied by a drinking song in Sweden and among Swedish-speaking Finns. It is typically served chilled and neat, though it can also be used as a base for various cocktails.