Iceland on the Rocks

Like so many northern countries, Iceland produces its own vodka — Reyka — which is handcrafted and made only in small batches at a distillery in Borgarnes, a small coastal town 43 miles north of Reykjavik.

According to the company website, “It’s not just made in Iceland. It’s made of the things that make this island unlike any other place in the world, from our breathtaking landscapes to our creative spirit . . . Pretty much everything we need to make award-winning vodka is already right here in Iceland. Lucky us. We just had to put them all together just right.”

Reyka collects its water — the most important ingredient in vodka — from a spring that runs through a 4,000-year-old lava field. The lava rocks naturally filter the water, making it some of the purest in the world. And that allows the flavor to shine through.

“We’re also proud to say that our distillery is powered by geo-thermal energy from volcanoes. While others might admire our ‘green’ approach, we think it just makes good sense.”

Mixologist Trevor Schneider, the National Ambassador for the vodka, recommends several places where you can try Rekya before or after your journey with Iceland ProCruises. Among his favorite spots in Reykjavik are Lebowski Bar on Laugavegur street and the Grillmarket restaurant on Lækjargata avenue.