The role of beverage in Mediterranean cuisine is just as prominent as its delicious food. Wine remains the most significant beverage in Southern Europe, along with other regional drinks such as Cremat (a Cuban-inspired rum punch in Catalonia), Mint tea (a sweetened tea from Morocco), Arabic coffee and Ayran (a Turkish yoghurt drink). Malta is a country which, despite having been exposed to British influence for nearly two centuries, managed to preserve its Mediterranean identity in many aspects, their food and drink being the strongest evidence of this.
The Maltese Islands have imprinted their own mark and expertise on Mediterranean beverages, particularly in relation to liqueur. Liqueurs are high in alcohol and sugar, with added flavourings, usually derived from herbs, fruits, or nuts.
Several of these liqueurs are produced to enhance, not only diverse flavours, but also to act as treats for special occasions. Anisette liqueur, containing concentrated aniseed and aromatic herbs, is a recipe that has been passed on from generation to generation. Either consumed neat or stirred with tonic or lemonade, anisette liqueurs are mainly consumed at wedding celebrations.
The Bajtra Liqueur is a sweet and delicate drink, based on the distinctive prickly pear; this fruit was introduced to the Mediterranean from the Americas in the 15th century. Bajtra can be enjoyed neat or with ice.
Remaining the island’s most traditionally exquisite and heartwarming liqueur, the Honey Liqueur‘s main ingredient is local honey, extracted by bees bred on the island. It is mainly consumed alone, but also with a dash of lemon.
A liqueur recently introduced to the Maltese market, is the Rummiena Liqueur that comes from the pomegranate, a fruit closely associated to health and beauty.
Limuncell continues to be the most recognized and popular Maltese liqueur available. Considered to be a perfect gift, Limuncell is exclusively produced from lemons grown on the island of Gozo.
Ever since liqueurs were introduced to Malta and Gozo, they have gained, not only international respect for being innovative and unique products, but are also considered a local craft.
