Goldwasser

goldwasser2

Goldwasser (German for "gold water") is a traditional herbal liqueur that is produced in Gdańsk, Poland, and Germany. It is known for its distinctive feature of containing small flakes of 22 or 23 karat gold leaf. Goldwasser has a high alcohol content, typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV). The drink's origins can be traced back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest surviving brands of liqueur in the world.

History

Goldwasser was first produced in 1598 by a Dutchman named Ambrosius Vermöllen, who moved to Gdańsk, then part of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. The liqueur quickly gained popularity across Europe, especially among the nobility and royal courts. Its unique characteristic, the floating gold flakes, was believed to have health benefits, including aiding in digestion and having a calming effect on the heart.

Production

The production of Goldwasser involves a complex distillation process of various herbs, spices, and roots. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, known only to a few individuals, but it is known to include ingredients such as coriander, cardamom, lavender, and cinnamon. After distillation, the liqueur is sweetened and the gold leaf is added. The gold used is edible and is considered inert, meaning it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed.

Cultural Significance

Goldwasser has played a significant role in the cultural and social life of Gdańsk and has been a symbol of the city's heritage and tradition. It is often consumed during celebrations and special occasions and is a popular souvenir among tourists visiting the region.

Varieties

While the original Goldwasser is still produced in Gdańsk, various versions of the liqueur have been created over the years, including those with different herbs or slightly altered recipes. However, the presence of gold flakes remains a constant feature.

Culinary Uses

Apart from being consumed as a digestif, Goldwasser is also used in culinary applications. It can be found in certain dessert recipes, cocktails, and even as a decorative element in fine dining.

See Also

• Liqueur
• Herbal liqueur
• Gdańsk
• Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth