Originating in Vietnam, Snake Wine is exactly what it sounds like: wine with a snake in it. The snakes, preferably venomous ones, are placed into a bottle of rice wine with herbs and left to steep for months. Sometimes the lonely snake enjoys the company of smaller snakes, turtles, insects or even birds tucked neatly beside it.
Care for a sip of Snake Wine?
The snakes are believed to possess medicinal qualities, and those who drink the wine believe it has the power to cure everything from hair loss to farsightedness. Not to mention a boost in the libido. As for the poisonous venom, its potency is stripped by soaking in the ethanol. Once the wine is ready, it can be served with another snake’s meat, liver and skin. Or, if the beverage is all the exotic flavor you need, stick with cheese and crackers.
Snake Wine won’t be found in expensive restaurants and it’s difficult to bring to parties because it’s generally made with cobras, which are on the endangered species list. As such, the United States and many other countries won’t allow it to enter the country, or your evening’s menu. As an alternative, sites such as asiansnakewine.com offer other unexpected options, like Scorpion Wine. It’s sure to be equally potent in shock value.
