Akvavit Mead Cocktail

This Akvavit Mead Cocktail is a smooth and aromatic drink that combines the herbal notes of akvavit with the sweetness of mead and honey. I love how the honey simple syrup balances the bold flavors, while the lemon juice adds just enough brightness to keep it refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it feels unique and elegant while still being simple to prepare. The akvavit brings a distinct Scandinavian character, the mead adds a floral sweetness, and the honey syrup ties everything together. I enjoy making it when I want a cocktail that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Honey Simple Syrup
▢1 cup honey
▢1 cup water

Akvavit Mead Cocktail
▢1 ½ oz akvavit
▢1 oz mead
▢¾ oz Honey Simple Syrup
▢½ oz lemon juice

Directions

1. To make the honey simple syrup, I combine honey and water in a small saucepan, heating gently until the honey dissolves. I let it cool before using.
2. To prepare the cocktail, I fill a shaker with ice and add akvavit, mead, honey syrup, and lemon juice.
3. I shake until the mixture is well chilled.
4. I strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. I garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh herbs if I want an aromatic finish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one cocktail. It takes me about 5 minutes to mix, plus 10 minutes to prepare and cool the honey simple syrup.

Variations

Sometimes I add a dash of bitters for more complexity. For a sparkling version, I top it with club soda. If I want a stronger herbal note, I infuse the honey syrup with thyme or rosemary before mixing.

Storage/Reheating

I store the honey simple syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The cocktail itself is always best made fresh, but I sometimes pre-mix the akvavit, mead, and syrup in a batch, then add lemon juice just before serving.

FAQs

What kind of mead works best?

I prefer a semi-sweet or floral mead so it balances the akvavit without being overpowering.

Can I make this less sweet?

Yes, I reduce the amount of honey syrup or add a touch more lemon juice.

Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes, I scale the ingredients, mix them in a pitcher, and chill until serving time.

What garnish pairs well?

I usually use a lemon twist, but fresh dill or thyme complements the akvavit nicely.

Do I need to heat the honey syrup?

I like to heat it slightly so the honey dissolves, but I don’t let it boil.

Can I skip the syrup and just add honey?

I don’t recommend it since honey won’t mix smoothly into the cocktail without being thinned.

Can I serve this cocktail over ice?

Yes, I sometimes serve it in a rocks glass with a large ice cube.

What type of glass is best?

I prefer a coupe for presentation, but a rocks glass works if serving it over ice.

How strong is this cocktail?

It’s moderately strong, with the akvavit providing the main kick and the mead softening the edges.

Conclusion

This Akvavit Mead Cocktail is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the unique flavors of akvavit. I love how the herbal spirit pairs with sweet mead, honey, and lemon for a drink that feels both refreshing and complex. It’s a cocktail that stands out and always impresses when I serve it.

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