Only the truest fans of Riga Black Balsam will know how important is the event that is approaching: the 270th anniversary of the legendary drink. Although the original recipe is still honoured and followed in every detail through the production process, Riga Black Balsam is now seen as a modern and even innovative brand. Here are several reasons why plus we also bring you some delicious recipes for winter drinks.
Legend has it that in 1752, when the Russian Empress Catherine the Great visited Latvia, she fell ill and could only be cured by the balsam made by the pharmacist, Abraham Kunce. Almost 270 years have passed since then and yet Riga Black Balsam is one of the most modern spirits in the world. This is underlined by an innovative development: Riga Black Balsam Original is one of the first 10 beverage brands in the world to use a unique e-label with a QR code to display information about the nutritional facts and ingredients in the drink. Over the next year, this practice is expected to be followed by others, with 66% of all beverage bottles placed on the European Union market using this new technology.
Worldwide recognition
During these years, Riga Black Balsam has also been highly appreciated by experts for its excellent quality, receiving more than 100 awards at international exhibitions and industry competitions. For several successive years, the brand has also been named as the ‘Most Unique Baltic Brand’. Although the most passionate fans of this drink can be considered those who speak the Latvian language, Riga Black Balsam is also enjoyed in other Baltic countries as well as Italy, the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, the Ukraine, Armenia, Israel, the Netherlands, New Zealand, as well as elsewhere.
Versatile taste and the official cocktail of Riga
Riga Black Balsam is unique in terms of its taste and aroma. It tastes good both in its pure form and in cocktails. Considering that the drink has become an unofficial business card of Latvia and Riga, it can also be found in the official cocktail of the city of Riga Clavis Riga. The cocktail is made from Riga Black Balsam Original and apple juice. The bitter taste of the drink, mixed with the sweet acidity of apple juice, creates a unique flavour bouquet. The name of the cocktail in Latin means "Key to Riga".
Riga Black Balsam is also the right drink to use in the preparation of both chilled cocktails and warming toddies that are suitable for winter. We bring you some simple recipes to help you enjoy this historic drink today.
