Agwa de Bolivia

Agwa bomb at a bar in Itaewon, Seoul 2013-04-08 01-26

Agwa de Bolivia is a herbal liqueur made from coca leafs, which are grown in the Bolivian Andes. The liqueur is produced by Amsterdam-based company BABCO Europe Limited. It is known for its unique flavor profile, which combines the natural essence of coca leaves with a blend of 36 other herbs and botanicals.

History

The production of Agwa de Bolivia dates back to the 19th century when coca leaves were first exported from Bolivia to Europe. The modern version of the liqueur was developed by BABCO Europe Limited, which refined the recipe to create a distinctive beverage that highlights the traditional use of coca leaves in Bolivian culture.

Production

Agwa de Bolivia is made by harvesting coca leaves from the Yungas region of Bolivia. The leaves are then shipped to Amsterdam, where they undergo a process of maceration and distillation. During this process, the coca leaves are combined with a variety of other herbs and botanicals, including ginseng, guarana, and green tea. The final product is a vibrant green liqueur with a complex flavor profile.

Consumption

Agwa de Bolivia can be consumed in various ways. It is often enjoyed as a chilled shot, but it can also be used as a base for cocktails. Some popular cocktails that feature Agwa de Bolivia include the "Agwa Bomb," which combines the liqueur with an energy drink, and the "Bolivian Mojito," which is a twist on the classic mojito cocktail.

Cultural Significance

The use of coca leaves has a long history in Bolivian culture, where they are traditionally chewed or brewed into tea for their stimulant effects. Agwa de Bolivia pays homage to this cultural heritage by incorporating coca leaves into its recipe. The liqueur has gained popularity in various parts of the world, particularly in Europe and North America.

Legal Status

The production and sale of Agwa de Bolivia are subject to various legal regulations due to the presence of coca leaves, which contain alkaloids that are controlled substances in many countries. However, the liqueur is processed in such a way that it does not contain any cocaine, making it legal for sale in most jurisdictions.

Related Pages

• Coca leaf
• Bolivian Andes
• Amsterdam
• Ginseng
• Guarana
• Green tea
• Mojito