Schnapps
The Thirsty Traveler : Episode FLTHR-207
Although distillation was first discovered in China, Europe without doubt is the center of spirit production today. Germany is well known for it's schnapps which is made by distilling grain and herbs. In South Germany, fruits and berries are used. There are numerous small family-run businesses that produce their own schnapps, passing down their secret blends from generation to generation. People are more interested in tasting various different kinds and varieties that their friends produce than in the big-name brands.
- Schnapps can be divided into two distinctive categories — herbal and fruit.
- There is no relation between American and German schnapps.
- American schnapps, sweetened and containing industrial grain alcohol, is usually lighter than German schnapps, which is uses a variety of distillates and is dry and potent.
- German schnapps can be distilled from grain, potatoes, fruits or herbs.
- Once a bottle of schnapps has been opened you cannot keep it for a long period of time as it will lose its taste.
- Serve your schnapps in a small cognac shaped glass and at room temperature for the best results.
- Kirschwasser is a clear cherry schnapps made from the small, sour Morello cherry.
- Barwurz, or womb root, is made from a root found in the remote meadows of Germany and was used to alleviate the discomfort of labour pains.
- The most popular brand of schnapps in the U.S. is Dr. McGillicuddys.
- It is said that monks discovered the medicinal benefits of schnapps over 500 years ago.
Germany
- Germany is Europe's largest economy and most populous nation — it shares its borders with nine other countries.
- Fasching or winter carnival celebrates the coming of spring and occurs just before Ash Wednesday.
- Oktoberfest, despite its name starts in September and lasts until the first week of October.
- Cruises are available on the Danube from April to October and embark from Passau.
Resources
Penninger Distillery
Bavaria, Germany
Ph: 011-49-8586-961112
www.penninger.de
Schladerer Distillery
Staufen, Germany
Ph: 011-49-7633-83222
www.schladerer.de
Café Decker
79219 Staufen (Breisgau)
Germany
Ph: 011-49-7633-5316
Sepp Aufschlager
Hohenbrunn12
Bavaria, Germany
Ph: 011-49-08552-1590
Next: Whiskey
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