Verpoorten Advocaat Egg Liqueur

Verpoorten Advocaat is the 1-liter German egg liqueur the whole category is named after. Bottled at 40 proof (20% ABV), it blends Grade A eggs, sugar, and brandy into a rich, custard-smooth classic. The Verpoorten family has guarded its recipe since 1876, and five generations later it is still the best-selling advocaat in Germany.

Unlike a thin liqueur you might pour from a shot glass, Verpoorten is famously thick — closer to a fine zabaglione than to anything in the liqueurs aisle. The texture comes from quality ingredients rather than tricks: fresh eggs, fine sugar, and distilled spirit, blended to a silky, spoonable consistency. It is naturally free of lactose, milk protein, and gluten (it does contain egg), which makes it a thoughtful pick for guests with dairy issues who still want dessert in a glass.

Serve it neat and well-chilled, sip it over crushed ice, or stir it into the classic Snowball cocktail with lemonade. In the kitchen it is a quiet workhorse — whisk it into cakes, custards, tiramisu, and homemade ice cream. If you are building out a proper liqueur shelf, Verpoorten belongs next to your favorite Irish creams and chocolate liqueurs; browse the full liqueur collection for pairing ideas.

Tasting notes: Pale gold and glossy; aromas of vanilla bean, custard, and a whisper of brandy; a full, velvety palate of fresh egg custard and light caramel; a soft, warming finish.

Frequently asked questions:

What is advocaat? A traditional Dutch and German egg liqueur — eggs, sugar, and brandy whisked into a thick, custard-like drink. Verpoorten is the original and best-known brand, made since 1876.

Is advocaat the same as eggnog? Not quite. Eggnog is milk-based and usually homemade for the holidays; advocaat is egg-based, thicker, and bottled as a commercial liqueur you can enjoy year-round.

Does Verpoorten need to be refrigerated? Store it like you would any cream-style liqueur — cool and dark before opening, refrigerated after opening, and shake well before serving.