This German specialty coffee has a special alcoholic kick to it that your neighborhood coffee house simply cannot match.

The beautiful city of Rüdesheim, already long known for its terraced vineyards along one of the most scenic parts of the Rhine River and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added the specialty coffee in 1957 to its list of historical highlights. Created by a German television host named Hans Karl Adam, the coffee remains popular in coffee houses throughout the city. While visiting Rüdesheim on most Rhine River itineraries, you can visit a restaurant where this traditional beverage is specially prepared for you!

Hot, black coffee (regular or decaf) mixed with three cubes of sugar and most commonly Asbach brandy (but sometimes cognac or Armagnac) and then served with thickly whipped cream, vanilla sugar and a splattering of dark chocolate shavings on top—this is a coffee that will keep you up all night and then some. One might compare it to Irish coffee, but of course then one might be missing the point.

For starters, the (usually) caffeinated drink has deep local roots. This is because the traditional Asbach brandy that is most often used in the beverage was created here in Rüdesheim as well, back in 1892 by a merchant and distiller named Hugo Asbach and is now a famous German specialty all on its own. Standardly served in a saucer with a genuine Rüdesheim coffee mug—a mug without handles, which you can only purchase in this city—drinking the coffee is enjoyable entertainment all on its own. Depending on the waiter, of course, the drink is often served with ceremony and lit with a match so that you can watch the sugar dissolved.

Clearly, along with Gluhwein and hot cocoa, Rüdesheim is the perfect beverage to enjoy throughout the winter and holiday season. Or if you prefer, enjoy a Rüdesheim iced coffee (perfect for hot summer months!) or Rüdesheim coffee espresso.