The Start of Spring – Linie Paloma
Here in Germany, Linie Aquavit is one of the most famous brands of aquavit. To welcome in spring, I have a refreshing recipe for you that uses an unusual combination of ingredients. However, Linie and grapefruit lemonade do work splendidly together!
In 1805, a shipload of aquavit barrels was sent from Norway to the East Indies. However, the spirit did not sell and was returned to Norway. After crossing the equator twice, the flavour and smoothness of the aquavit had greatly improved. To this day, the spirit in every bottle of Linie has completed this journey, crossing the equator twice. Apart from that, aquavit is made from neutral alcohol that is redistilled with caraway seeds and other botanicals. After dilution to cask strength, the spirit is aged in sherry casks.
Spicy Summer in the glass
The official Linie homepage features a recipe for the Linie Paloma. This simple cocktail combines a splash of lime and grapefruit lemonade with a generous measure of aquavit. Usually, when I think of aquavit, I think of darker, spirit-forward cocktails, such as Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s Norwegian Wood. So, I was very curious to see how this drink would turn out.
0,75 cl Lime Juice
Built – Copa glass over ice cubes – top off;
Garnish: Grapefruit Wedge (Dried Orange and Lemon Wheel);
Song: Júníus Meyvant – Draw the Line;
In a nutshell, the Linie Paloma does work and is a tasty, summery drink. Initially, the freshness and carbonation of the grapefruit lemonade come through. Yet, after a short while, the flavour of caraway becomes noticeable. Surprisingly, the spicy and slightly menthol notes of the caraway go well with the citrus flavour. Of course, you have to like the spice, but if you do, you should definitely try this Paloma variation!
*The fact that I received a product reviewed in this article for free, did not – in any way – influence the rating of said product. I received the aquavit for free from MuthKomm
