Jeppson's Malort Liqueur

Jeppson's Malort is Chicago's iconic Malort alcohol, a local beskbrannvin rooted in Swedish tradition. Made with wormwood, this bitter schnapps was first developed in medieval times for its supposed medicinal benefits. The style is most closely tied to Skane, Sweden, where wormwood grows naturally, and it arrived in the U.S. with Swedish immigrants in the early 1900s. Among them was Carl Jeppson, who would later establish his own version of the spirit.

During Prohibition, Carl Jeppson produced his spirit as legal "medicinal alcohol," selling it bar-to-bar in Chicago. After repeal, Jeppson's Malort Liqueur became a fixture in Swedish bars on Clark Street, eventually spreading throughout Chicago with the help of the city's Polish community. Over time, it evolved into more than just a drink; it became a rite of passage and an inseparable part of the Malort experience at Chicago bars.

Known for its unrelenting, bitter character, Jeppson's Malort is not for the faint of heart. Its rugged taste has been described as a challenge, but for those who persevere past the first few sips, it becomes unforgettable. With 35% alcohol by volume (ABV), it continues to stand as a bold expression for those who "disdain light flavor or neutral spirits."

Aroma: Herbal, botanical, wormwood-forward.

Palate: Strong, sharp, unapologetically bitter.

Finish: Lingering, bold, and unforgettable.