Riga Black Balsam

A special drink made to a secret recipe created in the 18th century, Black Balsam is a national symbol and is still sold in traditional clay bottles. It is made from 24 herbs, botanicals, fruit, birch buds, raspberries, ginger and other secret ingredients, then stored in oak barrels where it acquires its slightly bitter taste and black colour. Balsam is pretty potent at 45% proof and is believed by many to be good for the digestion and circulation. As well as being served neat, it forms the basis of numerous cocktails. Combined with hot blackcurrant juice it becomes ‘Karstais Balsams’ – perfect for cold winter evenings. Riga Black Balsam is one of the most popular souvenirs of a trip to Latvia and even boasts its own specialist bars such as Balzambars and B Bars in Riga’s Old Town.