Whether you call it Jager or its more formal name Jägermeister, this alcoholic liqueur is a popular nightlife drink in America. Originating from Germany in the 1930s, Jägermeister was created as a digestif. Eventually, this herbal liqueur made its way as a staple into the liquor cabinets and bar shelves of America in the 1990s.
Composed of 56 herbs, fruits, roots, and spices, this herbal liqueur has a thick, syrupy composition and strongly tastes like licorice or anise. Known for its strong taste, Jägermeister is considered a polarizing drink, and people either love or hate it.
Jägermeister is dark brown in color and comes in an iconic dark green bottle. The label prominently displays a stag with a cross between the antlers. Despite people believing that Jägermeister contains elk blood, this is not true.
With a 35% ABV rating, this herbal liqueur is on par with any traditional liquor, so there is no need to worry it will make you feel “extra drunk.” Reported health benefits from consuming digestifs include aiding in digestion and as a cough suppressant.
How to Drink Jager
Jägermeister should be served cold, and manufacturers recommend keeping the bottles in the freezer or chilling on ice.
Jägermeister can be consumed on its own or as a mixed drink. Taking a shot of Jager is a common method, as sipping it neat is not for the faint of heart. Some of the most popular mixed Jägermeister drinks are:
Jagerbomb
Probably the most iconic drink, a Jagerbomb is made by dropping a shot of Jägermeister into a glass of Red Bull. The combined flavors can be described as bubble gum or cotton candy.
Surfer on Acid
Don’t let the name fool you; this fun drink combines Jägermeister, coconut rum, and pineapple and will have you hanging ten in no time. The bitterness of the Jagermeister is quickly erased by the tropical sweetness of the coconut and pineapple.
German Vacation
If traveling is out of the question right now, take a quick trip to Germany with this mixed drink. Jägermeister, rum, ginger, lemon juice, orgeat, and bitters come together to have you sightseeing from your couch. The almond from the orgeat pairs well with the herbal notes of the Jägermeister making this a unique cocktail
Final Thoughts
Jägermeister is often associated with a college frat party, but this complex liqueur deserves a fair shake. If you have been on the fence, go out and grab a bottle! Don’t forget to chill it well and try one of the recipes listed above.
