What is Ginjinha

Ginjinha Liqueur

Ginjinha, a delightful Portuguese liqueur, is renowned for its sweet and distinct flavor derived from cherries. The name Ginjinha stems from the infusion process involving a particular cherry variety known as Ginja, scientifically referred to as Prunus cerasus austera or Morello cherry. In the Portuguese language, “Ginjinha” is the diminutive term used to describe this sour cherry. This unique combination of flavors creates a captivating liqueur that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Ginja Liqueur’s History

Ginjinha, a renowned Portuguese liqueur, owes its creation to the ingenuity of Francisco Espinheira, a Galician friar who found himself working in Portugal at the esteemed Saint Antony’s Church. Inspired by his surroundings, Espinheira embarked on a bold experiment, immersing ginja berries in aguardiente, a potent distilled alcohol commonly known as Portuguese brandy.

The immediate success of Espinheira’s creation is etched in history, particularly in the vibrant city of Lisbon. It was in this bustling metropolis that “A Ginjinha,” a pioneering establishment, introduced the drink to the public in 1840. Remarkably, this iconic bar continues to thrive to this day, defying the passage of time. Passed down through generations, it remains a cherished family business, currently helmed by the fifth generation.

Situated at the heart of Lisbon, precisely in Largo São Domingos, “A Ginjinha” is conveniently located between the illustrious Teatro Nacional D. Maria II and the majestic St. Domingos’ Church. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Ginjinha, attracting locals and visitors alike, who flock to savor this cherished liqueur and immerse themselves in the rich history that surrounds it.

How do you drink Ginjinha?

Ginjinha is served in a shot glass with one gray cherry at the bottom of the glass. Unfortunately, we have some stores using plastic cups. At the end of the day, the nearby waste bins are full of trash.

In Obidos, Ginjinha is usually served in a small edible chocolate cup. I like this option, but sometimes the chocolate is low quality, damaging the experience!

How many calories are in a glass of Ginjinha?

A shot glass of Ginjinha Liqueur has 103 calories.

How much is Ginjinha’s price?

The shot cost 1€ – 1,50€. The bottle costs 7€ – 15€.

Ginjinha Recipe

• 1-kilo cherries stemmed and cleaned with the pit.
• 1 liter vodka or firewater.
• 3 cups Water
• 2 cups Sugar
• 1/2 cup Red Wine
• 1 Cinnamon Stick
• 3 Cloves

Add the cherries, vodka, cinnamon, and cloves into a jar or bottle.

Cover one time per month and shake well to ensure that all the hooch contact all the cherries and spices.

When the cherries are without color, and the vodka has turned red, it is time to make your syrup. Bring the sugar and water to a boil on the stove, then turn off the heat, cover, and allow it to cool completely. Strain the vodka into a mixing bowl, and set the cherries aside for later use. Put the cinnamon and cloves in the trash.

Add the syrup and half a cup of red wine. Mix well.

Split the spent cherries between two bottles, and pour the liquid on top. Add the liqueur. Close the bottle and allow the liqueur to age for one to three months before drinking.

How much alcohol contents in the Ginjinha?

Ginjinha has an alcohol percentage of 19%.

Check out these popular recipes:

• Bifana – Portuguese Pork Sandwich
• Portuguese Steak Recipes
• Portuguese Custard Tarts
• Piri Piri Chicken
• Seafood Rice

Where to drink Ginjinha

When it comes to enjoying the traditional Portuguese liqueur, Ginjinha, there are several historical establishments in Lisbon that offer this delightful experience. Here are three notable places where you can savor Ginjinha:

Ginginha sem Rival: Located at Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 7, Ginginha sem Rival is a renowned establishment to indulge in this beloved liqueur. With its long-standing presence, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike seeking an authentic Ginjinha experience.

A Ginjinha: Situated at Largo de São Domingos, 8, A Ginjinha holds a special place in history as one of the first bars to commercially serve this cherished drink. Passed down through five generations, it has retained its original charm and continues to captivate visitors with its rich heritage and delectable Ginjinha.

Ginjinha Rubi: Located at Rua de Barros Queirós, 29, Ginjinha Rubi is another establishment where you can sample this delightful liqueur. With its unique ambiance and dedication to preserving the essence of Ginjinha, it offers a memorable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Lisbon’s cultural tapestry.

Whether you choose Ginginha sem Rival, A Ginjinha, or Ginjinha Rubi, each place presents an opportunity to taste and appreciate the distinct flavors of Ginjinha while steeped in the historical backdrop of Lisbon.

The charming town of Óbidos, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, stands as a testament to its historical significance and is regarded as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal.

In addition to its captivating allure, Óbidos is also known for producing a similar liqueur known as Ginja de Óbidos, which is widely available throughout the country. This local brand of Ginja adds to the town’s appeal and offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in the flavors of this delightful drink.

While exploring Óbidos, there are several noteworthy attractions to visit. The town boasts exquisite churches, a magnificent castle, and charming bookstores that add to its allure. Notably, the castle has been transformed into a luxurious hotel, providing a unique and enchanting experience for guests.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Óbidos is a vibrant town that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, further enhancing its allure. In July, the castle comes alive with a traditional Medieval Market, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of medieval Europe. In March, a Chocolate Festival takes place, offering a sweet indulgence for chocolate enthusiasts. Additionally, during Christmas, the town is adorned with festive decorations, and families can partake in various activities that capture the holiday spirit.

With its rich history, lively events, and charming ambiance, Óbidos promises a memorable experience for those who venture within its medieval walls.

My last suggestion: Chocolate Cake with Ginjinha.

Indulge in the delectable combination of flavors with a Chocolate Cake infused with Ginjinha, a tantalizing Portuguese liqueur. This delightful dessert begins with a simple, moist chocolate cake, free from any creamy layers. Once baked, the cake is then gently pierced all over with a fork, creating tiny channels for the Ginjinha to seep in. The luscious liqueur is then drizzled over the cake, infusing it with its unique cherry essence.

To complement the richness of the cake, it is recommended to serve it alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The coolness and smoothness of the ice cream beautifully contrast with the warm, decadent flavors of the chocolate cake, creating a harmonious marriage of taste and texture.

If you find yourself captivated by the allure of Ginjinha and wish to experience it firsthand in Portugal, consider booking an unforgettable culinary adventure with Food & Wine Portugal Tours. Their 8-day tour promises to immerse you in the world of Portuguese gastronomy, allowing you to savor the country’s finest delicacies, including the exquisite Ginjinha liqueur.

Prepare to embark on a journey that tantalizes your taste buds and unveils the rich flavors of Portugal, all while indulging in the sheer pleasure of a Chocolate Cake infused with Ginjinha.