The top 10 most popular Schnapps brands on the market are:

1. Berentzen Plum Schnapps
2. Teichenne Butterscotch Schnapps
3. J.H. Henkes’ Schnapps
4. Jungfrau Herbal Schnapps
5. Goldschlager Cinnamon Schnapps
6. Teichenne Chocolate Schnapps
7. Archers Peach Schnapps
8. Puchheimer Marillen Schnapps (Apricot)
9. Berentzen Apfel Schnapps
10. Schlenkerla Barrel Aged Smoked Malt Schnapps.

Origin of apple schnapps

The Germans believed that alcohol could be beneficial to the body, if taken in prescribed doses to keep the body warm. This idea was put forth by physicians and monks, with the Bavarian Ettal monastery soon developing a reputation for bottling Schnapps. The Roman tradition of fruit cultivation would also lead to the production of Schnapps in Austria. The combination of sunlight and cold weather in Austria produced fruits with high acidity and strong aromas. When undistilled water began to cause illnesses, Austrians began to transform fruits into alcohol. 

The invention of the copper pot in the 1800s made the distillation of Schnapps famous, as the copper pots simplified the distillation process. Marie Antoinette’s mother Maria Theresa contributed immensely to the fame of Schnapps in Austria. She knew that the production of fruit-based distilled spirits would generate revenue for the government. In the 17th century, she allowed each household to produce about 200 liters of distilled alcohol every year. Apple Schnapps remains a well-known beverage to this day.

Function

Apple Schnapps serves as a vital component in many cocktails. It is also used to flavor sweet and savory dishes. This drink can be used to add flavor to anything from meat to cheesecakes.

Nutrition

One shot (53g) of sour apple Schnapps contains:

 When consumed in moderation, apple Schnapps provides some possible health benefits:

• It may reduce the chances of developing ischemic shock.
• Apple Schnapps could cut down the risk of diabetes.
• This drink may minimize the chance of developing heart disease.

However, excessive alcohol consumption can have side effects. If you consume too much, there are significant risks of developing a weak immune system, mental health problems, and social disorders.

Commercial production

Generally, the production of apple Schnapps involves distilling fermented apple juice or fermented whole apples. In German tradition, the drink is produced without any added sugars. Conversely, American Schnapps contain sugar and artificial flavors. In 2016, the liqueur market was valued at $111 billion and was expected to hit $131 billion by 2023, with a growth rate of 2.5% between 2017 and 2023. The global sales volume of spirits in 2014 was about 21.29 billion liters.

Application

The length of time that apple Schnapps can last in storage depends on the quality of the drink. To store this drink, make sure that you keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat. Tightly close the bottle whenever it is not being consumed. The drink’s overall quality and flavor can begin to decrease if left open.

Apple schnapps recipes

This fruit brandy can help craft a variety of delicious drinks. Here are some popular recipes:

• Apple Martini
• Candy Apple on the Rocks
• Cinnamon Apple Schnapps
• Caramel Apple Shot
• Washington Apple Cocktail

FDA regulation

The FDA does not regulate the production or processing of apple Schnapps. However, the TTB regulates the production and processing of Apple brandy. The drink must not contain any dangerous coloring or flavoring agents. According to the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act), any person who wants to import distilled spirits must obey the organization’s labeling requirements.

References

Graham, Colleen. “Exactly What Is Schnapps?” www.thespruceeats.com, The Spruce Eats, 29 Nov. 2019, www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-schnapps-759917. 

“About Schnapps.” Ifood.tv, ifood blog, ifood.tv/german/schnapps/about. 

Statista Research Department. “Global Spirits Sales Volume, 2015.” www.statista.com, Statista, 1 Aug. 2016, www.statista.com/statistics/237932/global-spirits-volume-growth/.