Ever Wonder How Thai Cobra Scorpion Whiskey Is Made?

Thai Cobra Scorpion Whiskey, often referred to as “Snake Whiskey,” is a type of spirit found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam. This whiskey is notable for containing either a whole snake, scorpion, or both, in the bottle. The snakes are often venomous, like cobras, and the belief is that their venom is neutralized by the ethanol in the whiskey. While none of these claims have been tested and verified by BarWarriors, thousands of sailors and marines have tasted this beast and survived.

The Tradition and History

While it’s often referred to as “Snake Wine,” “Snake Whiskey,” and “Cobra Whiskey,” there isn’t a traditional name for the spirit. It’s known solely by descriptive terms. And in another weird twist, despite the liquor commonly infusing a whole snake in the bottle, using a cobra isn’t a requirement. In fact, medicinal liquors of this type usually feature a variety of regional animals and insects.

This tradition of infusing alcohol with animals or insects dates back centuries in Asia. These practices are often rooted in traditional medicine systems, like Traditional Chinese Medicine and similar local practices in Vietnam and Thailand.

In many Asian cultures, snakes are seen as powerful and potent creatures. The belief is that the essence and characteristics of these animals is infused into the liquor, imparting both flavor and therapeutic properties. By infusing the snake, it’s a way of harnessing its power. It also serves as a symbol of bravery and fearlessness.

How Did They Get The Cobra In The Bottle?

The Making of Cobra Whiskey

The making of Cobra Whiskey involves a process that’s as intriguing as the drink itself. Here’s an overview of how it’s typically made:

1. Selection of the Snake and/or Scorpion: The snakes used are usually venomous, such as cobras, while the scorpions are typically large and potent. They are chosen based on local beliefs about the medicinal properties they possess. The animals are often farmed or captured specifically for this purpose.
2. Neutralization of the Venom: The venom of these creatures is protein-based, which means it’s rendered inactive by the ethanol in the whiskey—we’ve never been so happy to drink ethanol in our lives! This supposedly makes the drink safe to consume, as the venom is no longer poisonous after this process.
3. Preparation of the Snake or Scorpion: The snake or scorpion is often killed just before the preparation. Then they are sometimes sewn or positioned into a threatening pose (like a cobra with its hood expanded) before being placed in the bottle. This is partly for the visual effect and to adhere to the belief that the animal’s strength and characteristics are transferred to the drink.
4. Insertion into the Bottle: The snake or scorpion is then inserted into the bottle. For larger bottles, this is relatively straightforward, but with smaller bottles, this can require skill and sometimes involves dislocating or bending the snake to fit.
5. Infusion: The bottle is then filled with whiskey or rice wine. The spirit used is typically a strong, clear grain alcohol, which is necessary to preserve the snake or scorpion and to ensure the venom is neutralized.
6. Additional Ingredients: Sometimes herbs, spices, or other medicinal ingredients are added to the whiskey to enhance its flavor and its supposed health benefits.
7. Aging: The whiskey is then left to ferment from several months to many years. During this time, it is believed that the essence and the supposed medicinal and virility-enhancing properties of the snake or scorpion infuse into the liquor.

Medicinal Claims and Cultural Significance

Cobra whiskey is said to possess various health benefits according to traditional beliefs. These include:

1. Enhancing Virility: It’s often believed to act as an aphrodisiac and improve sexual performance. Some people who drink it experience numbing in their, er, extremities.
2. Boosting Vitality: The whiskey is thought to imbue the drinker with the cobra’s strength and agility.
3. Pain Relief: Some claim it can relieve different forms of pain and aches.
4. Curing Hair Loss: In some traditions, it’s thought to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss.
5. Improving Vision: There are claims that it can enhance eyesight, drawing a parallel to the keen vision of snakes.

Controversies and Concerns

It’s important to approach Snake or Scorpion Whiskey with caution, especially considering the potential health risks and the ethical considerations regarding wildlife. In many countries, the production and sale of such beverages are regulated or illegal, primarily due to concerns over wildlife preservation and food safety standards. Some Concerns:

1. Animal Welfare: The use of live animals in these products raises significant ethical and animal welfare concerns.
2. Health Risks: While the snake’s venom is neutralized by the alcohol, there are potential health risks, including allergic reactions or the presence of parasites and pathogens.
3. Conservation: Some of the species used in these whiskeys are endangered, and their use contributes to wildlife trafficking concerns.

In 2018, the LA Times wrote that the whiskey is not illegal in the United States, but it’s still best to check with your local laws and regulations. In many countries, it’s illegal to import such products due to wildlife protection laws and food safety regulations. That said, Cobra Whiskey is a traditional product with a rich history in Southeast Asian cultures. Please consume it with respect and caution.

For a BarWarriors’ take on the recipe, please click here.