They say that one of the main qualities of a true Lithuanian is solidity. It is customary here to bring everything to the end, build on conscience and create for the joy of oneself and descendants. That is why Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and simple, and Lithuanian drinks are a real example of a quality product that is not ashamed to decorate any festive table.
Lithuanian alcohol
Like all EU countries, Lithuania has customs regulations restricting the import of spirits to one liter per person. You can take twice as much wine and beer with you, but it is much more pleasant and easier to buy Lithuanian alcohol in a supermarket or enjoy the national flavor in a local restaurant. In mid-2014, the price for the most popular Lithuanian liqueurs ranged from 5-10 euros per bottle, which is fully justified by the high quality of the product.
Lithuanian national drink
With all the richness of the choice of alcoholic drinks produced by Lithuanian craftsmen, you should definitely try the honey balsam “Zalgiris”, which is positioned as the national drink of Lithuania. Its strength may seem prohibitive, because it is as much as 75 degrees. However, the balm is surprisingly easy to drink, leaving behind a pleasant honey-herbal aftertaste, and especially warms the body and soul during long walks in Christmas Vilnius or winter Kaunas.
"Zalgiris" contains juniper berries and cranberry juice, it is insisted on linden flowers and is recommended to be added to coffee or tea, if in its pure form the national drink of Lithuania seems too strong.
Alcoholic drinks of Lithuania
Among the huge list of alcoholic beverages in Lithuania, there are several groups, each of which has worthy samples that are readily purchased by tourists as souvenirs:
- Honey balsams represented by the Suktinis drink, prepared with the addition of red currant juice, and the cranberry Du Keliai.
- Meads, including the famous "Trakai" made from natural honey, whose bitter taste is achieved by steeping on juniper berries and oak acorns.
- Honey drinks, whose sweetness is set off by the flavors of cloves, lemon balm, black tea and medicinal herbs, and the importance is emphasized by numerous awards from international exhibitions and fairs.
Lithuanian alcoholic drinks can and should be tasted in combination with the best creations of its chefs and confectioners, because for each balm or liquor, the talented people have come up with a special dish, served to guests with pride and cordiality.
