Empirical Spirits

Empirical Spirits Test Kitchen

On Wednesday, we had the opportunity to take a tour of Empirical Spirits along with a tasting of some of their products. Many of the places we have visited have supported the implementation of the New Nordic Manifesto. Empirical Spirits believe that the world is full of amazing flavors that can be used to make great things, and they should not be limited to only flavors native to Scandinavia. I think this mindset allows them to create many more unique things for people to try. Along with using flavors from around the world, Empirical Spirits utilizes its employees with a variety of backgrounds in order to better develop the spirit. Their test kitchen is used to create small batches with flavors that they would like to experiment with. Empirical Spirits' philosophy surrounding flavors reminded me of our discussion during our first lecture. Jonathon pointed out that supporters of the New Nordic Manifesto believe that it is fine to go hundreds of miles to a different part of Scandinavia for an ingredient, but it is unacceptable to drive only a few miles out of Scandinavia for one. During our tasting, I learned that they also work to reduce their waste by reusing items to create new products. For example, a pepper that is used to flavor one of their spirits is reused to create a delicious sauce. Empirical's usage of this specific pepper also supports the livelihoods of people in multiple towns in South America. This company is a fantastic example of ethical production to create something different.