Nalyvka

Nalyvka is a traditional Ukrainian sweet alcoholic drink, a kind of homemade fruit-and-berry cordial. The name comes from the word “nalyvaty” (to pour). Traditionally ripe berries were covered in a bottle with a little sugar and left to ferment for two to three weeks; pouring horilka over the fruit is a later method, less common at home.

For nalyvka the best ripe berries and fruit are taken — cherries, plums, raspberries, currants, apricots — covered with sugar, poured over with horilka, and left to infuse in the warmth and shade for several weeks or months. During this time the drink absorbs the colour, aroma, and taste of the fruit, becoming fragrant, sweet, and not too strong. The finished nalyvka is decanted and served at the festive table as a dessert drink. Every housewife had her own tried recipes, and a good cellar of nalyvky was the pride of the family. Nalyvka is a tasty embodiment of the generosity of Ukrainian orchards and the hospitality of our people.