Asbury Park Distilling Co. Aquavit, New Jersey, USA

A delicious Aquavit from Asbury Park.

Asbury Park Distilling opened on Memorial Day weekend in 2017. It’s the brainchild and passion of six co-owners lead by Zack Ohebshalom. Master Distiller Bill Tambussi has a masters degree in distilling from the internationally-respected Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, and did his apprenticeship work in Philadelphia before coming to Ashbury Park. As you would expect, their first offerings were Vodka and Gin. But not that there is a bit of time on their side, they have released a Barrel Finished Gin and a Double Barrel Bourbon. The distillery and tasting room are right downtown and they use a custom-made combination still — half pot still, half column still — that lets them do all their work in one.

Aquavit is a neutral grain Spirit that’s been produced in Scandinavia since the 15th century. Some say it’s reminiscent of Vodka. Asbury Park Distilling Aquavit is their take on this traditional Spirit. It’s crafted exclusively from corn and infused with caraway, dill, and a special botanical blend. Bottled at 86 proof, this is a dry Spirit with flavors of licorice, dill, and caramel dancing around the full-bodied and mouth-coating palate. There are countless ways you can savor this one, including sipping it neat. If you want to mix it up, make a Martini or Bloody Mary with a herbaceous yet savory spin.