To drink Malort like a true Chicagoan, you must embrace the Chicago Handshake. This ritual involves pairing a shot of Jepson's Malort with a cold, crisp lager. It is a rite of passage for visitors and a staple for locals.
The bitterness of the wormwood-based liqueur is immediately tempered by the refreshing, malty notes of the beer. It is a study in contrasts that cleanses the palate and prepares you for the night ahead.
Always serve the Malort chilled. The cold temperature helps to slightly mute the initial intensity of the botanicals, making the experience more approachable for the uninitiated.