Gammel Dansk Bitter Dram Liqueur 1000 ml

Bold, distinctive and deeply rooted in Danish tradition, this herbal liqueur offers a unique blend of bitter and aromatic flavors. With a robust herbal backbone yet remarkable drinkability, it stands as an exceptional aperitif or digestif for those seeking character and complexity.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Created in 1964 by Danish Distillers under master-blender J. K. Asmund, Gammel Dansk was developed to appeal to mid-century Danish drinkers with a new take on bitter liqueurs. The recipe remains secret, built around 29 herbs, spices and flowers — including angelica root, nutmeg, aniseed, ginger, rowanberries and more. The botanicals are macerated in high-proof neutral spirit, then diluted to 38% ABV (76 proof in some markets) and bottled. While its heart is Danish, production is now carried out under the Anora Group.

Critics Reviews

Although full international critic scores are scarce for this niche item, one industry note calls it “a superbly layered herbal dram — rich coffee grounds, dried orange peel, gentle gentian bitterness and a long, warming finish.” Local Danish profiling praises it as “the go-to for traditional celebrations — bold, herbal and unapologetically bitter yet coherent.”

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Deep copper colour in the glass; pronounced aromas of roasted coffee bean and dark chocolate, offset by citrus peel, anise and warm baking spices — cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.

• Palate: The first impression is a wave of herbal bitterness — gentian, angelica root, rowanberries — softened by aniseed and licorice-like sweetness. Underneath lies toasted wood, subtle caramel and warming herbal tea.

• Finish: Long and lingering — the bitterness holds steady while warming spice, dark cocoa and dry citrus zest fade slowly into a dry, slightly tannic close.

Quick Overview