"Founded by Johan Bülow on the Danish island of Bornholm about 14 years ago, this gourmet licorice maker emphasizes high-quality licorice root and artisanal techniques to create complex, adult-oriented confections. They extract flavor from freshly dried root and blend it with starch (rice flour) and molasses, then either force the mixture through pumps to extrude ropes or use a traditional method of boiling and reducing in open vats for hours before hand-stretching—processes that yield distinctive flavor and texture. Positioned as "licorice for adults," its products are marketed to people who enjoy olives, funky cheeses, and dark chocolate; chocolate-covered sweet licorice has helped drive international growth, accounting for a majority of revenues outside Denmark. The company’s stated mission is to broaden appreciation for licorice by showcasing its depth, culinary versatility, and layered flavors." - Jessica Furseth