Raise a Glass to Global Flavors: Explore the Best Libations from Around the World with Wanderers Compass

Exploring libations around the world is an exciting way to immerse oneself in the culture and traditions of a country. Each libation has a unique story to tell. If you’re interested in alcoholic beverages, trying local drinks in every country you travel to will provide a window into the country’s heritage and local flavors.

Whether sipping Vinsanto with a view of the stunning Santorini sunset or enjoying a glass of Limoncello after a hearty Italian meal, libations offer an opportunity to experience a country’s culinary diversity.

So, if you want to explore the world’s flavors, grab a drink and embark on a libation adventure! Are you a globetrotter looking for new and exciting libations to try on your travels? Look no further than travel bloggers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough’s adventures in libations around the world. Join them on their journey as they share their favorite libations from different countries.

Three Cities, Malta

The first featured libation, Ginja d’Obidos, originates in the Portuguese town of Obidos. It is a brandy-based liqueur made by infusing sour Morello cherries with sugar and spices, resulting in a smooth and mellow drink with a deep fruit flavor and aroma. Despite its sweetness, Ginja has a high alcohol content of approximately 19%, making it a potent drink. It is traditionally served as an aperitif or a digestif and is best enjoyed neat in a liqueur glass or chocolate cup.

While in Greece, Joelle and Ryan sampled Vinsanto, a sweet wine made from sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes found exclusively on the island of Santorini. With a winemaking history dating back thousands of years, Vinsanto is a dessert wine with a unique aroma and taste that pairs well with chocolate desserts, pear tarts, and vanilla ice cream. It is also enjoyable as an aperitif or a digestif.

In Southern Italy, Joelle and Ryan encountered Limoncello, a sweet and tangy lemon liqueur primarily produced in the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast. Made from lemon zest, it is traditionally served chilled as a digestive after meals. Limoncello is an ideal accompaniment to chocolate-based desserts and complements the classic Italian tiramisu. It is also a popular mid-afternoon aperitif.

Leaning Tower of Pisa Italy

Lastly, in Iceland, the duo tried Brennivín, a clear distilled herbal spirit considered Icelanders’ signature beverage. Brennivín is characterized by a distinct aroma of fresh rye bread and subtle sweetness blended with Icelandic water. With an ABV of 40%, it is a potent drink not for the faint-hearted. Brennivín, which means “burning wine” in Icelandic, was introduced in 1935 when prohibition was partially lifted.

Joelle and Ryan have tasted a range of unique and exciting libations during their travels. Each drink has unique characteristics and history, from the sweet and fruity Ginja d’Obidos to the strong and potent Brennivín. Sampling local beverages is an excellent way to experience new cultures, and Joelle and Ryan’s libation adventures serve as proof of this.

To learn more about libations, visit Libations of the World Section of Wanderers Compass.