What is sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn berries offer a truly unique flavor experience that's difficult to compare to more common fruits. They deliver an intensely tart and acidic profile with bright citrus notes reminiscent of passionfruit, orange, and pineapple. This vibrant acidity is balanced by an underlying sweetness and distinctive tropical character.

What makes sea buckthorn particularly interesting is its complex finish—slightly astringent with a subtle pine-like quality that hints at its northern climate origins. The berries contain natural oils that create a creamy mouthfeel unlike most other fruits.

The powerful tanginess makes pure sea buckthorn challenging to eat raw, which is why it's often found in juices, sauces, and preserves where sweeteners can balance its intensity. Chefs prize sea buckthorn for its vivid orange color and ability to add a surprising burst of sunshine-like acidity to both sweet and savory dishes.