Spirits That Surprise: 12 Weird Alcoholic Drinks



By Sara Schwartz

Yury Minaev/iStockphoto
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Kvass (Fermented Bread Liquor)

A mildly alcoholic beer made from fermented rye or black bread, kvass is a popular home-brewed tradition in Russia that is also commercially produced in bigger towns and cities.

The fermentation process involves pouring boiling water over dried bread, adding yeast, sugar or molasses, and a little flour, and allowing the mixture to stand for 12 hours in a warm place. The resulting brew is then strained and poured into bottles and often dried fruit, like a raisin or two, is added before sealing and letting sit an additional two days. In addition to the original version, kvass flavored with fruit and herbs are quite common.

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