RATAFIA

a common name in France for many light liqueurs, especially those which owe part of their flavor to the addition of Oil of Bitter Almonds (see ALMOND OIL). It is also employed as a title for an essence based on almond oil and in the South is applied to herb or fruit-juice beverages strengthened with brandy, variously spiced and matured in bottles for six months or a year before drinking.

"Ratafia cakes" is a class name for small cakes flavored with almonds, etc.