Röteli
Röteli is a liqueur specialty from the Swiss canton of Graubünden , which originated in the 19th century or possibly even earlier.
Manufacturing
Röteli is made by soaking a spice mixture in ethanol , sugar syrup and cherry juice . This mix is the secret of taste and is locally different. It contains cinnamon , cloves , vanilla and other spices. After separating the spice cake, you get a red-brown liqueur with around 22% (by volume ) alcohol.
tradition
On New Year's Day the school-leavers divided the village among themselves, each now visiting all houses in his own part and making New Year's wishes. They had to have finished their duty by the time high mass began. In return, they received a few centimes and a glass of Röteli. On New Year's Day the adults also visited their godparents and toasted the New Year with a glass of Röteli or schnapps. The landlords also showed their best side and bought their regular guests a drink (usually a Röteli).
Especially during the winter months, friends and relatives in Graubünden still celebrate their reunion with a zanign (Romansh for “glass”) Röteli. There is a large or small bottle of Röteli in almost every local household.