Unicum - Hungarian Liqueur

One of the finest and most popular drinks in Hungary!

About Unicum

Known as the national drink of Hungary, Unicum is a herbal flavoured liqueur with a subtle bitter sweet taste.

History Of Unicum

The history of the drink dates back to 1790, when a court physician named József Zwack combined different herbs and roots to create a remedy for Kaiser Joseph II, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary, who was suffering from stomach ailments. When the monarch tasted the drink he exclaimed, “Das ist ein unicum!” meaning in English “This is unique!”. Thus the name of the drink was given.

The first Unicum factory started production in 1840 in Pest, and together with the secret recipe it is still the property of the Zwack family. Although, the exact recipe is not known, it can be divulged that Unicum is made of over 40 different herbs and spices, blended and distilled before being aged in oak casks for six months to create its inimitable flavour and harmony.

How To Serve Unicum

Unicum has a beneficial effect on the digestion, and it can be savoured either as an apéritif or as a digestif. You can drink it chilled, yet its rich taste can be appreciated the best at room temperature.

There are also two other varieties of Unicum which are Unicum Next and Millenicum.

Further Information About Unicum

For more information about Unicum, you can visit the official website of Zwack. If your planning a trip to Hungary, you can visit the Zwack Unicum Heritage Visitors Centre in Budapest. As well, you can visit the Zwack Palinka Distillery for a detailed tour and tastings of various Unicum drinks.

Zwack
http://www.zwack.hu

Where To Buy Unicum

Unicum isn't the easy drink to find at your nearest wine and beer store. However, it is gaining more popularity outside Europe especially within North America. Just remember to always call the store a head of time to ensure the item is stocked even though it may be listed on their website or catalogue.

CANADA

Ontario

LBCO (various types available)
http://www.lcbo.com/main/en.shtml

USA

California

Wally's Wine and Spirits
http://www.wallywine.com/default.aspx

New York

Marketview Liquor (labeled as Zwack only)
http://marketviewliquor.com

Mount Carmel Wines & Spirits (Unicum Modified)
http://www.mountcarmelwines.com

UK

Drinkon.com
http://www.drinkon.com