Why Chicago’s Bitter Malört Became a Local Icon

August 11, 2026

Discover how Jeppson’s Malört transformed its intense wormwood bitterness into a Chicago tradition, social ritual and symbol of local culture.

Chicago has a liquor famous for its intensely bitter taste.
Chicago has a liquor famous for its intensely bitter taste.

For many locals, trying it is a city tradition.

The drink is called Jeppson’s Malört.
The drink is called Jeppson’s Malört.

Its reputation is built on shock, bitterness and strong reactions.

Malört was created in the 1930s by Swedish immigrant Carl Jeppson.
Malört was created in the 1930s by Swedish immigrant Carl Jeppson.

He developed the recipe during the years following Prohibition.

The liquor’s defining ingredient is wormwood.
The liquor’s defining ingredient is wormwood.

The herb is known for its sharp and powerful bitterness.

First-time drinkers often react with surprise or disbelief.
First-time drinkers often react with surprise or disbelief.

The flavor has become part of the experience itself.

Despite the harsh taste, Malört developed a loyal following in Chicago.
Despite the harsh taste, Malört developed a loyal following in Chicago.

Bars across the city continue serving it nightly.

For many residents, ordering a shot has become a social ritual.
For many residents, ordering a shot has become a social ritual.

Friends often introduce newcomers to the drink together.

The liquor’s unusual reputation helped turn it into a local icon.
The liquor’s unusual reputation helped turn it into a local icon.

Its identity is tied closely to Chicago culture.

Even people who disliked it initially sometimes return for another shot.
Even people who disliked it initially sometimes return for another shot.

Over time, some drinkers begin to appreciate its herbal complexity.

Malört’s appeal goes beyond flavor alone.
Malört’s appeal goes beyond flavor alone.

For many fans, it represents humor, resilience and shared experience.