Aquavit is a common spirit throughout Scandinavia and, while it used to be one of the most popular ways to consume alcohol, these days it is more usually brought out during traditional festivities like Midsummer, Christmas and Easter. There are even specific songs to sing when downing a shot; the lyrics to the most famous one basically translates as “down in one!”.
The dominant flavours in aquavit are always based on dill and caraway, but there are many different varieties that can also be infused with other herbs (fennel and anise are popular), citrus and even flowers (my favourite is an elderflower version). I like my cocktails strong, bitter or spicy rather than fragrant or sweet, but I find the heady spices in aquavit work well with the freshness of mint in a julep – it’s a great way to use up that bottle between holidays.