Tree-mendous: World’s first spirit made from sap extracted from birch trees

By cbadmin on November 28, 2016

David Wallwork has spent years working in the soft drinks business but came up with the wacky idea for the unusual tipple after birch water became a foodie trend.

The sap is tapped from birch forests in northern Europe in springtime then brought to the UK where it is fermented and distilled into a clear spirit.

The creation, called Freya Birch Spirit in a nod to Freya, the Norse goddess of love, is thought to be the first spirit ever created from tree sap.

Mr Wallwork says Freya is an alternative to other clear spirits like gin and vodka, and should be enjoyed neat over ice or with tonic water.

Its flavour is said to be similar to top notch tequila or young whisky with hints of peaches and vanilla.

Mr Wallwork’s boozy 40 per cent proof creation costs £37.50 for a 70cl bottle, and can be bought from independent wine shops and online.

Mr Wallwork, from London, said: “Freya Birch Spirit is the very first spirit to be made from distilled birch sap, which is what makes it so interesting. “Natural birch water is the latest new trend is the healthy soft drinks category, and this pure ingredient is the inspiration for Freya.

“We use this wild ingredient as the base from which to create something new and truly innovative in spirits.

“Birch sap is water absorbed by the roots of the birch tree which passes up the tree to the leaves to drive growth. It’s full of nutrients – amino acids, minerals and carbohydrates.

“Birch sap is wild, foraged and pure, sourced from a pristine environment and full of flavour.

“This purity and flavour allows us to create a delicious smooth spirit with a unique taste and character.

“The wild trees are tapped just once a year in early spring using 100 per cent sustainable and traditional methods.

“We then freeze the fresh sap for freshness and transport it to our craft distiller in the UK where it is transformed into Freya Birch Spirit.

“Freya has a smooth, clean, full flavour. It is naturally delicious with subtle green flavours, woody notes and hints of vanilla.

“We recommend drinking it over ice or with naturally flavoured tonics.

“The reaction to Freya has been amazing. It’s been hugely popular with mixologists and drinkers as tastes fantastic and is a great new base for interesting and different cocktails.”