Riga Black Balsam

Riga Black Balsam is the city's oldest branded drink, a near-black herbal liqueur around 45 percent strength, made from a secret mix of botanicals and bottled in distinctive matt black ceramic. Bitter and medicinal on its own, it is more often stirred into coffee, tea, blackcurrant juice or cocktails.

What you actually see

• The black ceramic bottle - the matt stoneware bottle that keeps light off the liqueur.
• Balsam in coffee - the classic warming way locals take it in winter.
• Berry and cocktail mixes - blackcurrant balsam and modern cocktail versions.
• Tastings - flights and the story told at old town bars.

When to go

Year-round, though a shot in coffee is especially welcome in cold weather. Try it at a bar before committing to a bottle, since the bitterness divides opinion.

Honest expectations

Straight, it is strong and medicinal, and plenty of visitors find it an acquired taste, so try before you buy. The mixed versions with berry or in coffee are far easier. It makes a good, genuinely local souvenir.

Nearby

The old town bars and the Central Market both sell it; it pairs naturally with a rye-bread and cheese tasting.