A week after visiting Finland, we're staying in the Nordic countries - kind of. 

Emily Vikre's family comes from Norway. There were always aquavit and hearty meals to be had. But when it came time to do something with that heritage - something that had nothing to do with her PhD in food policy and behavioral theory - she came home to Duluth to found Vikre Distillery. 

Yes, they're making whiskey, but this episode is whiskey-lite. Instead, I wanted to take the time to delve into the Scandinavian origins of aquavit, the caraway style favored in Denmark with which I've fallen in love, and how Vikre fits in the rising wave of Nordic cuisine. 

Emily, of course, has thought about all of this already. I love doing research for these episodes so I'm as prepared as possible - Emily came just as prepared as I did, armed with generations of knowledge, a 17-course feast in her rearview, and a true understanding of where Vikre is, where she wants it to be, and what its identity is. This may be a shorter episode than usual, but believe me I felt as elatedly exhausted as I do after a two-hour one. That's the sign of a great guest. 

I can't wait to have her back on. Thanks Emily!

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Before we jump into the interview just a few quick notes:

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Thanks for reading! Now here’s Emily Vikre, Founder (with husband Joel!) of Vikre Distillery.

Vikre Distillery

• Vikre Distillery Website

Vikre Distillery Reviews

• Vikre Distillery Øvrevann Aquavit Review (Coming soon!)

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• SMWS Website