This is aquavit at its most playful and pretty. Norden’s Strawberry Rhubarb expression takes the savory backbone of classic aquavit and dresses it in summer fruit, all blush color and bright aroma. At Grappa, we pour it for guests who want something a little unexpected to open the evening.
About the Distillery
Norden Aquavit is made in Chelsea, Michigan, where its makers craft spirits in the Scandinavian tradition. This Strawberry Rhubarb release is a seasonal, limited expression built on Norden’s original table-style aquavit, a fruited variation that shows off the distillery’s creative side while staying true to its roots.
Botanicals & Style
To create it, Norden steeps fresh strawberries and rhubarb in its original caraway-led aquavit, then finishes the spirit with hibiscus and a delicate touch of rose for color and aroma. The result is a fruited aquavit that keeps its savory spine: caraway and herbs underneath, with a ripe, tart-sweet fruit character on top. The style is vibrant and floral, an elegant balance of garden fruit and Scandinavian spice.
Tasting Notes
The nose bursts with fresh strawberry and a floral, rose-like lift. The palate follows with bright fruit and tart rhubarb, threaded through with the familiar caraway spice and a soft citrus note. It is fruity but never cloying, finishing clean and crisp with that signature aquavit freshness. The blush hue makes it as lovely to look at as it is to sip.
What to Pair It With
Its fruit-and-spice character makes it a charming aperitif. Try it with our Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata, where the ripe fruit notes echo the tomatoes, or with the Mediterranean Salad for a fresh, bright start. It also pairs nicely with Fresh Oysters. See the full dine-in menu for more.
How It’s Served at Grappa
At Grappa, Norden Strawberry Rhubarb Aquavit is served chilled and neat, over ice, or built into a classic cocktail by our bar for $10. Cold and blush-pink, it is a delightful way to begin an evening in Queen Anne.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is made by Norden Aquavit in Chelsea, Michigan, as a seasonal, limited fruited expression of their original aquavit.
What does it taste like?
It bursts with fresh strawberry and tart rhubarb over the savory caraway spice of classic aquavit, with a floral lift and a clean, crisp finish.
Is this a sweet liqueur?
No. It is a fruited aquavit rather than a sweet liqueur, balancing ripe fruit with caraway-led spice and a dry, refreshing finish.
When you are ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and the dine-in menu.
