Fjellbekk translates to “mountain stream”. My first fjellbekk was in a dreamy atmosphere overlooking a lush mountain scape with a stunning river in Gudbrandsdalen. A group of us were met by a cheery local handing out glasses of this clear and sparkly drink with a summer strawberry adorning its rim. Wooden logs blanketed with furs were placed around a large open fire beckoning us to sit. On the fire, a wire grill was holding up a blackened kettle big enough to satisfy the whole group with a cup of coffee after dinner.

I understood the drink in my hand featured the local aquavit, so I was expecting more or less the strength of the usual shot. Instead, I was met with a refreshing and pleasant sweet sip of a blend of earthy flavors complimented by citrus. Fjellbekk is a simple blend of aquavit, vodka, lime juice and a lemon-lime carbonated soda. It’s lightness, crispness and coolness were a mere reflection of the waters that were surrounding us – giving a nod to its name.

Local and seasonal food cooked over the fire and traditional music drifted us into another time that evening, and it all started off with that glass of fjellbekk. I brought back a bottle of their local aquavit and still use it for this drink. I highly recommend having a glass out in nature by a body of water, but whether or not that’s possible as you close your eyes it will surely draw you straight to a mountain stream.  

Fjellbekk (Mountain Stream Cocktail)

Serves 1

• ¾ ounce (2.25 cl) aquavit
• ¾ ounce (2.25 cl) vodka
• ¾ ounce (2.25 cl lime juice
• Lemon-lime carbonated soda

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Fill a tall glass (highball) with ice cubes. Add the aquavit, vodka and lime juice. Top with soda and stir.

*Try this Aquavit, Raspberry and Cardamom Sorbet for a refreshing summer treat