Becherovka: Czech Liqueur
Becherovka is a famous Czech bitter herb liqueur. In 2007, the drink celebrated its 200th anniversary.
The Czech’s may be world famous for their beer but they also have a wide variety of other alcoholic beverages.
Introduction
Becherovka is a bitter herb liqueur from the Czech Republic. It is produced in Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad) in the West Bohemia. The recipe is kept in secret and there are only two persons in the world who know the right ingredients and herbs used in production.
History of Becherovka
In 1807, a pharmacist from Karlový Vary named Josef Becher began selling bitters made from his own recipe as a medicinal tonic. It was known as the “English Bitter” and was used to treat stomach ailments. His personal physician and friend, Dr. Frobrig is known to have influenced Josef Becher recipe for Becherovka.
In 1838, Josef Becher passed on the business to his son Johann. Soon afterwards he started large-scale production of the drink, and accordingly his name has been associated with Becherovka to the present day.
The signature of Johann Becher can be found on every bottle of Becherovka, confirming its original quality and taste.
Following the post-war expulsion of the Becher family and the nationalisation of the liqueur plant, Becherovka spent 57 years in the hands of the state. Privatisation commenced in the year 1997, although the process was not brought to a successful conclusion until 2001.
The current owner of the company is Pernod Ricard, which is French owned and is one of the world’s three largest producers of alcoholic beverages. It currently owns almost 100% of company shares. One share, the so-called Golden Share, is owned by the state.
Taste Profile
Becherovka contains a mixture of 100%-natural herbs and spices with 38% alcohol content. It is best served ice cold and can also be included in various cocktail drinks. Although, it can be said that Becherovka is an acquired taste.
Further Information
For more information about Becherovka, you can visit the official Becherovka website.
There is also the Jan Becher Museum located in Bohemia, Czech Republic where visitors can tour the historic cellars and watch a video on the aging and production of Becherovka.
Becherovka Official Website
www.becherovka.cz
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Category: Spirits
About the Author (Author Profile)
Suzanne Urpecz, creator and editor of The Hungarian Girl. Click on my About page for more info.
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