Czech Becherovka

When it comes to the drinks that most travelers associate the Czech Republic with, after beer, one almost always thinks of Becherovka, an herbal liqueur created over two hundred years ago in Karlovy Vary. Its unique flavor, delicate balance of bitterness and sweetness, and reputation as the "Czech cure for everything" have made it an integral part of the national culture and a trademark of the country.

The history of Becherovka dates back to the early 19th century. At that time Karlovy Vary was already a famous resort where European aristocrats and wealthy travelers came to visit . It was here that English doctor Frobrig and local pharmacist Josef Becher decided to create a remedy that would help digestion and support general health. Thus appeared a drink based on herbs and spices infused with alcohol.

Soon the recipe was perfected and became a family secret of the Becher family, passed down from generation to generation. Since then, the formula has remained practically unchanged: even today it is kept secret and known only to a few masters.

The exact composition of Becherovka remains a mystery. It is only known that about twenty different herbs and spices are used for its production, collected both in the Czech Republic and imported from other countries. Among the ingredients one can catch notes of cinnamon, cloves, juniper and anise, but the full list is a trade secret.

The drink is aged in large oak barrels, which gives it softness and a complex flavor. It is this combination of secret ingredients and special production technology that made Becherovka unique and recognizable.

The flavor palette of Becherovka is a harmony of sweetness and bitterness. Light spice and herbal tones make the drink feel both refreshing and warming. Not without reason Czechs say that Becherovka is suitable both for winter evenings by the fireplace and for summer aperitifs. The drink's strength is about 38%, which makes it universal: it is good both in its pure form and in cocktails.

For the Czech Republic, Becherovka has long ceased to be just a liqueur. It is part of the cultural heritage and a kind of gastronomic brand. Many tourists take it home as a souvenir, and Czechs are proud that the drink has become known far beyond the country's borders.

There is the Jan Becher Museum in Karlovy Vary, where you can learn about the history of the liqueur, see ancient barrels, collections of bottles and, of course, taste different types of the drink.

Although the classic Becherovka remains the most popular, manufacturers are experimenting with new flavors. This is how it came to be:

• Becherovka Lemond is a lighter version with citrus notes, aimed at a younger audience.
• Becherovka Cordial is a sweet lime-infused liqueur favored by those who prefer soft drinks.

These versions demonstrate how tradition can adapt to modern flavors while maintaining the basic idea of harmony of herbs and spices.

Most often Becherovka is drunk chilled in its pure form, but it is perfectly combined with juices and tonics. The most famous cocktail is "Concrete" (Becherovka + Tonic), the name of which is derived from the first letters of the ingredients. Light, refreshing and yet with character, this drink has become a favorite of many tourists and Czechs.

Czech Becherovka is more than a liqueur. It is a part of the country's history, its gastronomic culture and national identity. Each glass contains the experience of generations, the spirit of the spa town of Karlovy Vary and a craftsmanship that has retained its uniqueness for over two hundred years.

When traveling in the Czech Republic, it is impossible not to try this drink: it will tell you about the country as vividly as medieval castles, the narrow streets of Prague or the famous Czech beer.