Besk is a Swedish liqueur known for its herbal taste and medicinal qualities. In the US, Jeppson's Malort is a popular version of besk that is taken as a shot more than it is as a digestif. In fact, Malort is a Chicago staple and part of the special drink combination called a Chicago Handshake.
The characteristics of besk are similar to green chartreuse. Green chartreuse has over 100 ingredients and is made by monks. Malort is characterized by the smell and taste of wormwood. This recipe is a mix between chartreuse and Malort, in an effort to take the edge off of Malort that many say is the root cause of 'Malort Face.'
Make your own besk or Malort with this Swedish Besk recipe!
DIY Malort or Besk Recipe
- Vodka
- Wormwood in liquid or herbal form
- Dried Elderflowers
- Juniper berries
- Allspice
- Star Anise