When you think of France, the first thing that probably pops into your mind is wines from esteemed regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne. But what many don’t realise is that France produces some great spirits too.. From beautifully crafted gins to elegant whiskies and world-famous brandies, French spirits offer sophistication, complexity, and a touch of that unmistakable French flair.
Enjoying brandy is a delightful experience that engages your senses. Here are five tips to help you savour it:
Choose the Right Glassware
Opt for a snifter: a short-stemmed glass with a wide bowl and narrow top. This design concentrates the brandy’s aromas, enhancing the tasting experience.
Serve at Room Temperature
Brandy reveals its full character when served neat at room temperature. Warming the glass slightly in your hand can further release its complex bouquet.
Savour Slowly
Take small sips to appreciate the layers of flavour. Allow the brandy to linger on your palate to detect notes of fruit, spice, or oak.
Experiment with Cocktails
Brandy’s versatility shines in classic cocktails like the Sidecar or Brandy Alexander. Experimenting with these can offer a new perspective on the spirit.
Pair with Complementary Foods
Enhance your brandy experience by pairing it with foods like dark chocolate, nuts, or rich cheeses, which complement its depth and complexity.
If you’re ready to explore France beyond wines, here are three award-winning spirits from the Ultimate Drinking Guide 2024 that deserve a place in your bar and your glass.
The Gardener Gin French Riviera Gin
The Gardener Gin is a fresh, aromatic gin that captures the essence of the sun-soaked French Riviera. It’s a collaboration between master distillers and Famed Hollywood actor Brad Pitt, designed to embody the spirit of coastal living.
Expect vibrant notes of fresh citrus, especially bitter orange and pink grapefruit, layered with classic juniper and delicate botanicals like rosemary and thyme. The palate is crisp, clean, and refreshingly smooth, making it perfect for summer sipping.
Why It’s a Must-Try
This gin isn’t just a pretty face. It’s made using the finest French botanicals and traditional distillation methods. Light yet structured, The Gardener is ideal for crafting a perfect gin and tonic, a French 75, or even sipping neat over ice.
Serve It With: A splash of premium tonic, a grapefruit peel twist, and a rosemary sprig for a Riviera-inspired G&T.
Pair It With: Light seafood dishes, goat cheese salads, or Provençal-style tapas.
Perfect For: Summer afternoons, rooftop parties, and sophisticated garden brunches.
Importer: Sonarys Co-Brands
Price: ₹17,580
Bellevoye Blue Fine Grain Finish French Malt Whisky
Forget everything you thought you knew about whisky needing to come from Scotland or Japan. Bellevoye Blue is a French triple malt whisky that brings together elegance, finesse, and bold flavour.
Crafted from three different malt whiskies distilled in France and aged in fine-grain French oak barrels, Bellevoye Blue offers aromas of toasted almond, vanilla, and dried fruits, balanced with soft spice and a creamy mouthfeel.
The whisky is medium-bodied, with a lingering, smooth finish that leaves you craving another sip.
Why It’s a Must-Try
It’s France’s answer to premium world whiskies; a perfect mix of tradition and innovation. Bellevoye Blue is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for both whisky connoisseurs and adventurous beginners alike.
Serve It With: Neat in a tasting glass or with a single large ice cube to open up the complex aromas.
Pair It With: Aged Comté cheese, roasted almonds, or dark chocolate truffles.
Perfect For: After-dinner sipping, whisky tasting nights, or as a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates exquisite finds.
Importer: Sonarys Co-Brands
Price: ₹16,620
St-Rémy VSOP Brandy
St-Rémy VSOP is a timeless classic, offering authentic French brandy at an approachable price point. It’s made from a blend of French varietal wines, distilled with care, and aged in small oak barrels to develop its signature smoothness.
Expect rich aromas of red berries, subtle oak, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The palate is round and elegant, with layers of dried fruit, caramel, and a light, woody finish.
Why It’s a Must-Try
This brandy offers a great value-for-money experience. Smooth enough to sip neat but also brilliant in cocktails, this French brandy is the ultimate versatile spirit for your bar.
Serve It With: Neat, slightly warmed by hand, or in a classic Sidecar cocktail.
Pair It With: Baked apple desserts, spiced nuts, or dark chocolate cake.
Perfect For: Relaxed evening sipping, festive gatherings, or an affordable but classy addition to your collection.
Importer: Monika Alcobev
Price: ₹3,495
Looking for amazing spirits recommendations? Click here to check out the winners of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 edition.
