Licor Beirão is a popular Portuguese liqueur known for its distinctive flavour and rich history. First produced in the late 19th century in the Lousã region of central Portugal, Licor Beirão’s exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations.
It is produced at Quinta do Meiral, a 12-hectare property in the middle of Serra da Lousã and the company is still controlled by the same family since its founding. Some of the spices used in Licor Beirão’s recipe are grown on the property, while others are imported from different countries, such as Sri Lanka, Brazil and India. These ingredients are macerated in alcohol of agricultural origin for about 3 weeks, to extract its essential oils, and then this infusion goes through double distillation in traditional copper stills to create its signature flavour profile, which includes notes of mint, cinnamon, cardamom, and lavender, among others. Finally, the newly distilled product is stored in stainless steel tanks where it rests for a few months before bottling.
The flavour of Licor Beirão is sweet and slightly bitter, with herbal and spicy undertones that make it a versatile drink and with an alcohol content of around 22%, it offers a moderate potency compared to many other spirits.In Portugal, Licor Beirão holds a special place in the culture and is often referred to as the “liqueur of Portugal.” It is commonly served at celebrations and is an essential in Portuguese households and bars. Beyond being enjoyed neat or on the rocks, Licor Beirão is also used in various cocktails and culinary recipes, adding a unique flavour to dishes and drinks.
