Jepson's Malort has a storied history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally created by Carl Jeppson, a Swedish immigrant, the recipe was brought to Chicago and quickly became a local legend.
The liqueur is based on the traditional Swedish besk, a wormwood-infused spirit known for its extreme bitterness. While many have tried to replicate the flavor, the original Jepson's recipe remains the gold standard for those who appreciate a challenging drink.
Over the decades, it has evolved from a niche immigrant tonic into a symbol of Chicago's grit and humor. Its reputation for being an acquired taste has only fueled its popularity among adventurous drinkers.