Licor Beirão is a Portuguese liqueur, originating from the Beiras region, that has been popular for centuries. Its trademark recipe is a closely guarded secret, known only to producer J. Carranca Redondo, Lda. The liqueur has a 22% ABV and is made from double-distilled herbs and seeds sourced from around the world, including Malaysia, Brazil and Thailand.
The unique flavour of Licor Beirão coms from its 13 botanicals which include mint, cinnamon, cardamom and lavender. It has a sweet yet slightly brandy-like taste that is pleasantly balanced with herbal notes. This topaz-coloured drink can be served on its own over ice or with a slice of lemon as a garnish. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as part of a classic cocktail; one popular example being the ‘Lemon & Licor Beirão': muddle half a lime in a glass before adding crushed ice, 40ml of fresh lemon juice and 60ml (2 ounces) of Licor Beirão. Shake for eight seconds before adding the final garnish of lime slice.
The history of Licor Beirão dates back to 1820 when it was first produced by pharmacist Joaquim Celestino da Silva Carranca Redondo in Lousã as an elixir for stomach aches. In 1922 he registered the trademark ‘Licor Beirão' and later passed the recipe to his son who established J. Carranca Redondo Distilleries in 1934 – still owned by the family today – to produce this beloved Portuguese liqueur on an industrial scale.
In 2016 Licor Beirão was named ‘National Drink' by the Portuguese government in recognition of its long-standing popularity throughout Portugal and beyond. It continues to be seen as not only an iconic spirit but also an integral part of Portugal's cultural heritage!
What Is Beirao Liquor?
Beirao is a Portuguese liqueur with 22% ABV. Produced by J. Carranca Redondo, Lda., the exact recipe of this unique spirit is a closely guarded secret, though it is known to be made from a double distillation of herbs and seeds sourced from around the world, including Malaysia, Brazil and Thailand. With its smooth and sweet flavor profile, Beirao can be enjoyed neat or mixed with other ingredients in a variety of classic cocktails.
The Flavour of Beirao Liqueur
Beirão is a Portuguese liqueur that is flavoured with 13 botanicals, creating a unique and complex flavour profile. The dominant notes include mint, cinnamon, cardamom and lavender. Mint provides a cool, refreshing taste while cinnamon adds warmth and spice. Cardamom contributes an earthy sweetness to the liqueur and lavender adds a subtle floral aroma. Together, these flavours create an aromatic blend that is both sweet and savory.
The Official Drink of Portugal
The official drink of Portugal is Licor Beirão, a liqueur produced in the Beiras region of Portugal. This sweet and delicious liqueur has been popular among the locals since its creation in the late 1700s. It's made from aniseed, sugar, and alcohol and is usually served as an aperitif or a dessert drink. The distinctive flavor of Licor Beirão is smooth and sweet with a hint of spice and bitterness. It's one of the most famous Portuguese liqueurs on the market today, making it the perfect way to represent Portugal!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Licor Beirão is a unique Portuguese liqueur with a secret recipe made from double distillation of seeds and herbs from all over the world. It has an ABV of 22% and is flavoured with 13 botanicals including mint, cinnamon, cardamom and lavender. Licor Beirão is traditionally served on-the-rocks with a slice of lemon or as part of a ginja cocktail with crushed ice and fresh lemon juice. This national drink of Portugal has been enjoyed by locals for centuries, and its sweet flavour makes it an excellent option for those with a sweet tooth.
