Enzian (Gentian Schnapps)

Rating

Calories: 220 Calories per 100ml

Cooking time: 72 hours maceration, plus distillation time

Recipe ingredients:

instacart: enzian-gentian-schnapps

Categories: Beverages, Alcoholic Drinks, Spirits, Digestif, European Cuisine, Herbal, Traditional Recipes, Homemade Liquors, Cocktail Components

About

Enzian or Gentian Schnapps is a traditional European alcoholic beverage known for its distinctive bitter flavor, which is derived from the roots of the gentian flower. Typically enjoyed as a digestif, Enzian is appreciated for its purported medicinal properties that aid in digestion. The process of making Enzian involves maceration, where dried or fresh gentian roots are soaked in high-proof alcohol to extract the flavors. This mixture is then distilled to create a clear, strong spirit with a herbal, earthy profile. In some variations, additional botanicals may be added for complexity. Enzian is best served chilled, straight up, or used as a base for innovative cocktails, bringing a uniquely bitter twist to traditional concoctions.