Over the past year, my exploration of gin has notably decreased—not due to a waning affection for the spirit, but because I only share reviews when I discover something truly worth discussing. Perhaps my search for new gins hasn’t been as thorough, or I’ve simply been looking in the wrong spots. Regardless, standout gins have become increasingly rare. That said, I have encountered a few exceptional options and continue my quest for more.

One spirit that’s been gaining traction lately is Aquavit, which shares many characteristics with gin, albeit featuring caraway as its primary botanical instead of juniper. 

Nuet Aquavit, launched in 2018, offers a modern twist on traditional Scandinavian aquavit, crafted with today’s discerning palate in mind. From the very first taste, it becomes apparent that this spirit differentiates itself from its more rustic predecessors, boasting a complex and invigorating flavour profile.

Steering away from the heavy caraway flavour that traditionally defines aquavit, Nuet embraces a cleaner, more polished taste. Distilled in Norway, it utilises a potato-based spirit as its foundation and blends classic botanicals, including caraway and citrus, with delicate notes of anise and grapefruit zest. The outcome is a bright, aromatic spirit that proves to be surprisingly versatile.

What truly sets Nuet apart is its approachability. While many aquavits are typically consumed as shots or paired with traditional Nordic dishes, Nuet is intentionally crafted for sipping or mixing into cocktails. It pairs harmoniously with tonic, soda, or even offers a Nordic twist in a martini. In fact, it serves as a delightful spiced alternative to the classic gin and tonic, especially when garnished with grapefruit peel or fresh herbs.

Nuet’s broad appeal has even been acknowledged at a gin competition, where it earned an award—an impressive feat for an aquavit. 

The branding is in line with its contemporary ethos—sleek, minimalist, and sophisticated, making it a striking addition to any upscale bar cart.

On the palate, Nuet is smooth with a light, oily texture that carries the botanicals gracefully. The finish is clean, providing just enough spice to remind you of its roots without overwhelming the senses.

In addition to their original aquavit, Nuet has also introduced Nuet Toddy and Nuet Coffee liqueurs. 

Nuet Toddy is an aquavit-based spirit infused with Norwegian blackcurrants, apples, figs, and pink pepper, making it a refreshing option for long drinks or cocktails. Meanwhile, Nuet Coffee is a coffee liqueur that shines in various mixed drinks.

All three spirits I had the pleasure of tasting were exquisite on their own, but I also experimented with several cocktail ideas, detailed below.

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Cocktail Suggestions

1. Nordic Tonic

A vibrant and herbal alternative to the classic G&T.  

Ingredients:  

– 50ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 100–150ml premium tonic water  

– Grapefruit peel (for garnish)  

Instructions:  

– Fill a gin glass with ice.  

– Add aquavit and top with tonic.  

– Stir gently and garnish with grapefruit peel.  

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2. Scandi Martini  

A dry, herbal twist on the classic martini.  

Ingredients:  

– 60ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 15ml dry vermouth  

– Lemon twist  

Instructions:  

– Stir ingredients with ice until chilled.  

– Strain into a chilled glass.  

– Garnish with a lemon twist.  

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3. Winter Spice Negroni  

A bittersweet, Nordic rendition of the Negroni, swapping sweet vermouth for Nuet Toddy.  

Ingredients:  

– 30ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 30ml Nuet Toddy  

– 30ml Campari or Aperol  

– Orange garnish  

Instructions:  

– Stir all ingredients with ice.  

– Strain into a rocks glass over ice.  

– Garnish with an orange slice.  

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4. Nuet Martinez  

An elegant and aromatic reimagining of a classic cocktail, using Nuet Toddy in place of sweet vermouth.  

Ingredients:  

– 50ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 30ml Nuet Toddy  

– 7ml maraschino liqueur  

– 2 dashes angostura bitters  

– Orange or lemon twist  

Instructions:  

– Stir all ingredients with ice until chilled.  

– Strain into a coupe glass.  

– Garnish with a citrus twist.  

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5. Nuet Aquavit Toddy Spritz  

Light and refreshing, ideal for a summer day.  

Ingredients:  

– 50ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 100-150ml lemonade  

– Mint for garnish  

Instructions:  

– Pour aquavit into a glass filled with ice.  

– Top with lemonade.  

– Stir and garnish.  

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6. Nuet Espresso Martini

A rich, Nordic twist on a modern classic.  

Ingredients:  

– 40ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 25ml Nuet Coffee  

– 25ml fresh espresso (or strong cold brew concentrate)  

– Optional: 5ml simple syrup (for added sweetness)  

– Coffee beans (for garnish)  

Instructions:  

– Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.  

– Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.  

– Double strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.  

– Garnish with three coffee beans.  

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7. Nuet Sour

A Nordic take on a contemporary classic.  

Ingredients:  

– 50ml Nuet Aquavit  

– 25ml lemon juice  

– 25ml maraschino liqueur  

– 5ml simple syrup  

– Egg white or alternative (I use Ms Betters Betters Miracle Foamer)  

Instructions:  

– Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.  

– Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.  

– Double strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.  

– Add a few drops of angostura bitters to garnish.  

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Final Thoughts – From the Manchester Food Tourist:  

Nuet Aquavit is more than just a modern interpretation of a Nordic classic—it’s a spirit that redefines the essence of aquavit. Smooth, stylish, and award-winning, it makes a fantastic addition to any home bar. Whether mixed into a cocktail, enjoyed as a G&T alternative, or sipped neat, Nuet infuses every pour with Scandinavian elegance. For cocktail enthusiasts, this trio of spirits offers delightful opportunities to add fresh twists to a variety of drinks.