A Shot of Black Death: Trying Icelandic Schnapps

Whenever we visit a new place, we love to imbibe whatever the regional beverage happens to be. In Iceland, it is brennivín - a clear, unsweetened schnapps that is considered to be Iceland's signature distilled alcoholic beverage. It is also sometimes called "Black Death" because of the skull and crossbones on the label and its reputation for being a strong drink. Brennivín is made from fermented grain or potato mash that is then distilled and flavored with caraway seeds. It typically has an alcohol content of around 40% to 45%, making it quite potent. The caraway flavor was definitely unique and unlike other schnapps I’ve had before.

Brennivín has been produced in Iceland since the 1930s and is often consumed as a traditional accompaniment to hákarl, or fermented shark. The sharp, herbal flavor of the brennivín is said to help cut the strong taste and odor of the shark meat. We definitely found this to be true when trying hákarl!

Where Can I Find Brennivín?

Brennivín is available in most bars and restaurants in Iceland and is often served chilled as a shot or mixed into cocktails. We picked up a bottle when we arrived, at the airport duty-free (recommended as this is usually the cheapest place to purchase alcohol in the country!) but it can be found in liquor stores as well.