Aquavit, or Akvavit

The drink of Scandinavian countries, and - not surprisingly - one that's best sipped cold. Flavored predominantly with caraway seeds, some brands of aquavit also smack of citrus and herbs. Distilled from potatoes or grain, this clear, high-proof spirit has a history dating back centuries. Legend has it that "if a man be bereft of speech in death, give him akvavit on his lips, and he shall at once regain his tongue."