French Spirits

Expert Review - 1996

Ultimate Beverage Challenge  89 Points | Very Good, Strong Recommendation.

Producer Description 

Fully respect each vintage’s respective terroir and ensure its perfect expression.
No blending of domains or vintages in order to preserve the specificities,
No « reduction » that would dilute the alcoholic or aromatic strength and the nuances of the terroir by adding « petites eaux » in order to not betray the typicalities.

Each Bas-Armagnac is strictly itself, with the name of the domain of origin, its vintage and the bottling date which tells its real age as eaux-de-vie stop aging once bottle.

The color of this 1996 vintage is gold with pretty brown highlights. Nose: The nose is very fruity carried by notes of quince, fig, orange jam and verbena. Tannins on the palate that are still young but very delicate. Finale: A beautiful length in the mouth characterizes this Darroze 1996 Armagnac.

Bas-Armagnac, whose capital is Eauze, is to the west of the appellation. It runs in the Landes and the western part of the Gers. It represents 67% of the areas identified in Armagnac. In this part of the land, the soils are sandy loam, called “tawny sands”. Bas-Armagnac eaux-de-vie are delicate and very fruity.

Producer Description 

Water, alcohol, sugar, raspberries and burnt sugar are blended together in refrigerated vats. When the alcohol content reaches a desirable level, the mixture is then filtered and bottled. Color Deep ruby, viscous Bouquet Intense raspberry fruit, nearly a sweet syrup, with oriental spice tones Taste Lush and intensely sweet but just tart enough from the raspberry fruits.

The Hardy XO Rare Cognac is part of the 'Tradition' Range by the House of Hardy. The blend is superbly aged with a beautiful amber color and incredible smoothness of taste. A real treat for all the senses, it delights with it's good looks, tantalising aromas, ever-evolving palate and satisfyingly long finish.

Presented in a contemporary decanter-style bottle, it displays beautifully atop a drinks cabinet.  As with all Hardy Cognac, this represents exceedingly good value for money. It's one of the signature aspects of their offerings - almost unbelievable high quality for the price.

 Luxurious blend of Grande and Petite Champagne eaux-de-vie aged up to 25 years. With rich notes of dried apricot, vanilla, toffee, and a smooth, lingering finish, this refined Cognac makes a memorable gift for any occasion.

Pastis de Marseille Prado 45 1.0 Liter

Experience the authentic taste of Pastis from Marseille with Prado 45, a classic French anise-flavored spirit that holds a significant place in the culture of southern France. Pastis Prado was founded in 1923 when pastis was extremely fashionable in France. Smooth and refreshing, it is a popular expression of pastis in its birthplace, Marseille. This particular version, Prado 45, captures the essence of Marseille with its unique blend of herbs and spices, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned pastis lovers and newcomers alike.

Heritage Since 1923

Pastis Prado was founded in 1923 during the height of pastis fashion in France. With nearly a century of tradition, Prado represents authentic Marseille pastis-making heritage. Each bottle embodies the spirit of Mediterranean summer and the social rituals that have surrounded pastis drinking for generations.

What is Pastis?

Pastis is a classic French anise-flavored spirit originating from Marseille in southern France. Often enjoyed as an aperitif, it's typically served with water and ice. The charm of Pastis lies not just in its flavor but also in the social rituals that surround its drinking. As the ice melts and water is added, the drink transforms into a pale, cloudy liquid through the signature "louche effect," inviting conversation and connection among friends.

Expertly Crafted Recipe

Prado 45 stands out due to its expertly crafted recipe, which balances the flavors of star anise, licorice, and other botanicals. This drink is produced using traditional methods, ensuring that every sip offers a taste of authenticity and heritage. The smooth and refreshing finish makes it perfect for warm evenings on the terrace or gatherings with friends.

Flavor Profile

Primary Flavors: Star anise, licorice, Mediterranean herbs and spices
Character: Smooth and refreshing with rich, aromatic complexity
Finish: Smooth and refreshing, perfect for aperitif service

1.0 Liter Format

Each bottle contains 1.0 liter of rich, aromatic liquid that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean summer. The larger format is perfect for entertaining, ensuring you have plenty to share with friends and family during gatherings and celebrations.

How to Serve Prado 45 Pastis

To truly appreciate Pastis from Marseille like Prado 45, it is essential to serve it correctly:

• Traditional Method: Mix one part Pastis with five parts cold water
• Louche Effect: Watch as the drink achieves its signature cloudy appearance while softening its strong flavors
• Serve: Over ice for a refreshing aperitif
• Garnish Options: Add fresh herbs like mint or a slice of lemon for a refreshing twist

Perfect Pairings

It's not uncommon to pair this beloved beverage with small appetizers, enhancing the overall experience:

• Olives and tapas
• Savory seafood dishes (steamed mussels)
• Mediterranean appetizers
• Light snacks and hors d'oeuvres
• Commonly used for cooking in savory seafood dishes

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet moment, Prado 45 enhances the experience with its delightful allure. This versatility makes Prado 45 an ideal choice for any occasion, be it casual get-togethers, warm evenings on the terrace, or formal celebrations. Perfect for both seasoned pastis lovers and newcomers exploring French aperitif culture.

Authentic Marseille Experience

As a popular expression of pastis in its birthplace, Marseille, Prado 45 offers an authentic taste of southern French culture. The drink invites conversation and connection among friends, embodying the Mediterranean lifestyle and the timeless tradition of the French aperitif hour. Experience the heritage, authenticity, and social charm that has made pastis a beloved part of French culture since 1923.

Producer Description 

Cultivated in France, Spain, and Morocco, each strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry is picked at peak ripeness to maximize sweetness, color, and fragrance. This helps us craft a berry flavored vodka characterized by a playful fruitiness and an ultra-smooth finish

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

Signature liqueur of summer cocktails, this liqueur expresses all the aromatic palettes of passion fruit! A great success for the Master Liquorists of Maison Massenez, rewarded with a Bronze medal at the London Spirits Competition 2022. 

Producer Description 

This special and rare cuvee has been bottled especially for Christmas from its oak cask.

This Petite Champagne originates from an old family reserve handed down from father to son beginning with the house's creation in 1872 by Edouard Normandin's great, great grandfather, Jules Normandin.

Normandin Mercier cognacs are matured in the family chateau’s traditional cellars near the town of La Rochelle, the historic medieval port that made Cognac famous many centuries ago. The proximity of the ocean, the natural regulation of hygrometry and oceanic temperature all favor the ageing of the cognacs, giving them fullness, elegance and a unique character.

Producer Description 

A subtle blend of more than 20 French eaux-de-vie : golden amber in color with a refined bouquet of oak and hints of honey, hazelnut, almond and walnut. The taste is smooth, round and well-balanced.

Drinking recommendations: Raynal VSOP can be savored in a snifter glass, neat or on the rocks, yet its strong aromas enable any blend with mixers such as soda, water or fruit juices. Depending on your mood, you can also enjoy a variety of delicious cocktails with Raynal VSOP.

Expert Review

Wine Enthusiast: 96-100 Points | A blend of original Benedictine and Cognac. Smells assertively of herbs, honey, quinine and baking spices with added aromas of black tea and tobacco. Entry tastes of tea, sage, fennel and a touch of quinine; the Cognac emerges at midpalate, lending a layer of elegance and genuine distillate presence. Finishes like a champion, long, semisweet, intensely herbal, mildly spicy and satiny. 

Producer Description 

B&B Liqueur is comprised of two parts - subtle, spiced Benedictine Liqueur and fine French cognac. It's a balance of flavors in a pour that tastes smooth yet finishes bold. The rich, noble notes of B&B are perfectly enjoyed neat in a snifter, yet are equally appealing in a fine selection of cocktails.

Winemaker Description 

This sippable, dark gold Cognac offers aromas of butterscotch, dried apricot and golden raisins. The flavors grow even bolder and rounder on the exit, warmed by a cinnamon spark.

Floral, fruity aromas lead to hints of toffee, anise.

Distilled entirely from fruit grown in Cognac’s Petite Champagne appellation & aged a minimum of 7 years in French oak, this is an elegant, fresh brandy from a historic family-owned house. 

Producer Description 

Created by Pierre Frapin 100 years ago, Fontpinot cognac has always been a delight to demanding epicureans. As opposed to a ubiquitous passion for planning, roots of the pleasure of tasting continue to work serenely and unstoppably at Frapin. To celebrate the centenary, Cognac Frapin is publishing a limited-edition anniversary packaging. Inspired by the original version, the label brings up to date the symbols of ownership and the colors popular during the Roaring twenties. The bottle is presented in a rough wooden box inspired by the straw-lined crates used at the time.

A real treasure of Cognac Frapin, Fontpinot XO can lay claim to the Chateau appellation because it is made exclusively from grapes harvested, distilled, aged, and bottled at the Chateau Fontpinot. Distillation over lees and a long aging in dry cellars provide its distinct character.

With an average age of over 20 years, this expression has a nose of candied fruit, marzipan, and rancio. The long aging brings toffee, almond butter, and spice to the palate before a long, elegant finish.

Producer Description 

Hine Rare V.S.O.P Fine Champagne Cognac originates from France, renowned for its exquisite cognacs. This distinguished spirit offers a taste of sophistication with its complex yet harmonious palate. Expect a delightful fusion of dried fruits, spices, and hints of vanilla, culminating in a smooth and lingering finish that epitomizes the finesse of a well-aged cognac.

Its captivating aroma captivates the senses with a bouquet of floral notes, intertwined with subtle oak and fruit undertones. Crafted from a blend of eaux-de-vie sourced exclusively from the Grande and Petite Champagne regions, this cognac embodies the essence of its terroir, delivering a sensory journey that is both luxurious and refined. With its alcohol content of 40%, it strikes the perfect balance, inviting you to savor its complexity either neat or over ice, allowing the flavors to unfold gracefully with each sip.

Hine Rare V.S.O.P Fine Champagne Cognac is a testament to the artistry and dedication of its makers, offering a timeless expression of the cognac-making tradition. Whether enjoyed as a contemplative digestif or as the centerpiece of a sophisticated cocktail, this exceptional cognac promises an experience of unparalleled elegance and indulgence.

Expert Reviews

Vinous 96 Points | Delamain’s youngest offering, at 20 to 25 years old, is also one of the standard-bearers of Grande Champagne (the blend was created in the 1920s and hasn’t changed). Light amber, with a delightful nose full of pear, marmalade, quince and orange blossom. The pear and quince carry onto the palate, where a distinctive membrillo-like flavor emerges — a unique note I find in a number of Delamain expressions. There’s gentle spice and warm citrus on the palate, gliding to a long, delicate finish. The definition of elegance.

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points | Bold and butterscotchy, this easy-drinking Cognac also has dried fruit and nutty tones, plus a saline touch that's reminiscent of salted caramel. There's a spicy flourish on the relatively dry finish. Delamain notes that it is one of the only Cognac houses to exclude VS and VSOP expressions from its portfolio, 'its range starts where others end, with an X.O.

Producer Description

A blend of long-aged XO Grande Champagne Cognacs, Delamain Pale & Dry benefits from a lengthy two-year marriage period in cask after assemblage before being bottled, resulting in a beautifully smooth roundness and flavour integration on the palate.

Producer Description

Made solely with the two best 'cru' of Cognac, Grande and Petite Champagne, 'Composition' reveals a truly magnificent terroir driven taste profile. Fresh, elegant, suave and aromatic. 'Composition' is an artistic visionary work with a natural balance of strength, smoothness and all the attributes you can expect from a Cognac carefully crafted by the Tesseron family house.

91 Points Wine Enthusiast | Big, sweet and boozy, this VSOP offers rich caramel aromas and flavors alongside lots of spice and a mouthwatering saline tang on the finish.

Producer Description 

Violet color with slight grenat shades. Very bright. Floral aroma. Spring flavors with floral notes (violet, rose…). Very aromatic tasting notes, floral and creamy. 

Christian Drouin Calvados Coeur de Lion Sélection — Pays d’Auge, Normandy | 375ml

In the heart of Normandy’s Pays d’Auge — the most prestigious appellation within Calvados — the Drouin family has been distilling apple and pear spirits for generations. Christian Drouin is one of the region’s most respected names, celebrated for Calvados of exceptional finesse and authenticity, crafted from hand-selected fruit grown in the estate’s own orchards. The Coeur de Lion Sélection is the entry point into the Drouin range and a beautifully balanced introduction to the world of Calvados: the sharp freshness of perry pears combined with the smoothness of cider apples, distilled in a column still and aged in old, lightly used casks that preserve the subtle balance of fresh fruit without imposing heavy wood character. The 375ml format is the ideal size for gifting, exploring, or keeping on the bar. 

The nose is inviting and fragrant: fresh apple, ripe pear, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, it is smooth and beautifully balanced, with crisp perry pear and ripe cider apple framed by a clean, fresh, gently warming finish. Approachable, versatile, and genuinely delicious — equally at home as an aperitif long drink, a cocktail base, or a culinary ingredient.

• Producer: Christian Drouin, Coudray-Rabut, Pays d’Auge, Normandy, France
• Expression: Coeur de Lion Sélection
• Style: Calvados AOC — apple & perry pear, column still, old cask aging
• Size: 375ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh apple, ripe pear, floral notes, smooth, clean warming finish
• Best Served: Long drink over ice with tonic; aperitif; cocktails; gourmet cooking (tarte tatin, cream sauces, pork dishes)

A Pays d’Auge Calvados of rare freshness and balance — Christian Drouin Coeur de Lion is the benchmark for what approachable Normandy Calvados can be.

Expert Review

Forbes Magazine: This is an exceptionally smooth Cognac. Matured for four years. On the nose, it offers up rich floral aromas of violet, jasmine, roses, white flowers and peonies, along with intense fruity notes of sweet caramel apples, honey and both fresh and dried fruit, especially prune, peach and apricot, along with Sauterne like notes of golden raisin and fig, as well as some passion fruit and a touch of vanilla. There is also an earthy, black tea like quality in the background, and a hint of waxiness.

Recently, Camus, the largest of the family owned Cognac producers, released a new addition to its core range of Cognacs—labeled Intensely Aromatic. The Cognacs were the culmination of a two-decade long effort to craft Cognacs that are notably more aromatic and flavorful than the norm.

Camus’ Cognacs have always had a reputation for being particularly aromatic. To further enhance that character Camus developed a proprietary distillation protocol, which it calls “Intensity,” that measurably increases the concentration of terpenes and esters in their Cognac, producing what the company describes as an “instant of intensity.”

Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants. They are closely associated with floral aromas. Esters are chemicals produced by the interaction of alcohols and fatty acids, and are closely associated with fruity aromas.

In crafting Intensely Aromatic, the firm utilized older casks made from lightly toasted, fine grained oak. The age and toasting of the casks minimized the aroma and flavor components that were contributed by the cask wood and further enhanced the prominence of fruit and floral aromas.

Producer Description 

Dark, burnt caramel color. Bright aromas of orange zest, molasses, ginger spice cake.

Warm flavors of bittersweet orange marmalade, mulling spices, and rich caramel with a bitter finish.

Produced by the Bigallet distillery according to the original recipe since 1875, China-China Amer is an incomparably rich and complex, 80 proof, orange-based, bittersweet liqueur peppered with botanical infusions.

The intense orange aroma and flavor in China-China comes from Bigallet's proprietary process of distilling fresh orange peel macerations. This intense orange distillate is blended with earthy and bitter gentian, tart chinchona bark, velvety anise, spicy clove, and a handful of other secret, Alpine herbs and spices. The flavors are married with rich caramel to balance the natural bitterness, and the dark, orange glow of China-China is born.

Memo Summary Notes

Bigallet China-China Amer is a legendary French bittersweet liqueur that has been produced in the French Alps since 1875. Often described as the "French answer to Amaro," it is an essential ingredient for serious home bartenders, primarily because it is the closest widely available substitute for the elusive Amer Picon

Producer Description

Our Armagnacs are aged in barrels crafted by our local coopers and made from Gascon oak, which comes from the nearby Southwestern forests. With this experiment, we desired to enhance the remarkable aromas typical of Gascon oak with a double maturation in new barrels.

Distillation: single distilled in a traditional Armagnacais column still to 58% vol.
Maturation: Aged a minimum of 4 years in two maturations, earning the name “Double Oaked.” The first aging is done in heavily toasted new Gascon oak; the second in new Gascon oak with a special toasting level.

Tasting Notes: The palate is rich with toasted bread, cacao, spices, and roasted flavors.

Enjoy: neat, paired with dessert, or in an Old Fashioned Cocktail.

Memo Summary Notes

The Dartigalongue Double-Oaked Bas-Armagnac is an innovative expression from the oldest house in the Bas-Armagnac region (founded in 1838). This specific bottling is widely considered a "bridge" spirit, specifically designed to appeal to bourbon drinkers through its unique aging process and high-toast profile.

The "Double-Oaked" Process:  

Stage 1: Aged for at least 3 years in heavily toasted new Gascon oak barrels. This provides the "char" and deep color typical of American bourbon.

Stage 2: Transferred to a second new Gascon oak barrel with a lighter, custom toast level to refine the texture and add layers of spice.

Memo Summary Notes

The Calvados Lelouvier Vintage 1988 is a rare, single-harvest apple brandy from one of Normandy's most respected "négociant-éleveur" houses. Lelouvier is famous for sourcing exceptional small-batch distillations from the Domfrontais and South Normandy regions and aging them to perfection in their own cellars.

Pairing: This is a classic "digestif." It pairs beautifully with aged Camembert or Pont-l'Évêque cheese, or a high-quality dark chocolate tart.

Producer Description 

Over one century and four generations, the Tesseron family have developed a treasury of knowledge, tradition and family secrets to create a collection of exceptional XO cognacs. With this unique heritage as their guide, Alfred and Melanie Tesseron, the current keepers of the family flame, are driven by a passion and their desire to share it with you.

Tesseron Passion XO Cognac is a unique blend created from the grape variety grown in their vineyards, Ugni Blanc. It is light and balanced with notes of spices.

Gabriel Boudier Rare London Dry Gin is created from the distillation of juniper, coriander, lemon peel, orange peel, angelica root, iris root and fennel seeds.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

One of the favorites in the fruity and exotic range, Gabriel Boudier's Mango Liqueur, will give you the sensation of eating the fruit. Characterized by its sweetness, this intensely aromatic liqueur will delight your taste buds. The yellow-hued Mango Liqueur reveals the flavors of this tropical fruit.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

Crafted from Japanese seaweed, our Nori Liqueur captures the essence of umami with finesse. The article highlights Gabriel Boudier’s talent for transforming rare ingredients into sophisticated creations. The blend of savory marine notes with balanced sweetness opens up new gustatory horizons.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

A unique liqueur, worthy of the quality and know-how of Massenez. Liqueur de Piment Oiseau is made from bird’s eye chili.

The taste is less sweet than you would expect from a liqueur, but it is uniquely spicy.

An intense taste experience for the adventurous. Massenez creams and liqueurs, found in the most famous and

trendy places in the world, are celebrated for their high quality and unique taste.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

This liqueur has an orange flavour with varying degrees of bitterness.  It is produced clear, and can have blue, green, orange, or red colour added.  The most common, Blue Curaçao is primarily used as an exotic colouring agent in cocktails and other mixed drinks.

G E Massenez has developed high quality ‘triple concentrated’ fruit crèmes.  Their rich aroma make them very versatile and they can be drunk neat, over ice, in cocktails or poured on ice creams, pastries etc

• Eau-de-vie distilled in Ribeauvillé, Haut-Rhin, in the Alsace region of France
• Distilled from Bergeron apricots (classic French variety) harvested towards the end of July
• Crushed and then fermented in fiberglass tanks with no additional sugar or yeast
• Twice distilled on a Charente-style copper pot still
• After distillation, the eau-de-vie is placed in stainless steel vats for a minimum of one year. These vats are kept in an outdoor courtyard and the opening covered in mesh so that the spirit may blow off unwanted esters and benefit from fluctuation in temperature.
• The nose begins with confident Earl Grey tea before expanding to ripe apricot and canned peach syrup with a hint of powdery confection, like a candy necklace; these same notes jockey for position on the lively palate and finish
• 45% ABV

You’ll come for this eau-de-vie’s juicy apricot notes, but a little patience will unfurl a dynamic and complex flavor tableau.

Producer Description

Eau-de-vie distilled in Ribeauvillé, Haut-Rhin, in the Alsace region of France

• Wild raspberries (rare in the Alsace) are sourced from a small grower in Romania; shipped to the distillery within 48 hours
• Wild raspberries don’t have the necessary sugar for ideal fermentation, so instead, they are macerated for 6 days in twice-distilled grape eau-de-vie
• The resulting eau-de-vie is distilled once on a Charente-style copper pot still
• After distillation, the eau-de-vie is placed in stainless steel vats for 6–8 years. These vats are kept in an outdoor courtyard and the opening covered in mesh so that the spirit may blow off unwanted esters and benefit from fluctuation in temperature.
• Reduced with spring water approximately one year before bottling
• Freshly smushed raspberries and raspberry leaves are complemented by cassis & red currant on the nose. The palate displays big florality with dimensions of fresh rose petal and rose stems. These green, stemmy notes move on to the finish with subtle frangipane and pink sea salt
• 45% ABV

Is there such a thing as an afternoon eau-de-vie? If so, this is it. Supporting floral notes make this expression an ideal pairing for tea-time cakes & sandwiches or a compelling pastry ingredient.

Citadelle Gin de France Rouge — Cognac, France — 700ml

Citadelle is one of France's most celebrated gin houses, distilled in Cognac using a 19th-century copper pot still and a signature blend of 19 botanicals sourced from around the world. Rouge is their most vibrant expression — built on that same classic Citadelle foundation and elevated with an infusion of fresh red fruits and rhubarb. The result is a gin that is fruity, aromatic, and completely natural, with no artificial colors or flavors. Crystal-clear in the glass, it delivers all the complexity of a great dry gin with a lush, berry-driven character that makes it as versatile as it is delicious.

Fresh and aromatic on the nose, with vivid cranberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, and the distinct sharpness of rhubarb layered over Citadelle's classic botanical backbone. On the palate, the red fruit swirls with juicy, tangy energy — bright, dry, and refreshing, with the depth and structure of 19 botanicals underneath. The finish is clean, fruity, and lingering.

Built on Citadelle's 19-botanical foundation — infused with cranberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, and rhubarb. Fruity, natural, and crystal-clear.

• Producer: Citadelle, Cognac, France
• Style: Dry Gin — Red Fruit Infusion
• Botanicals: 19 original Citadelle botanicals + cranberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, rhubarb
• Character: Fruity, aromatic, completely natural — no artificial colors or flavors
• Size: 700ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, rhubarb, bright acidity, dry finish
• Best Served: Over ice with tonic, in a Negroni Rouge, or as a spritz with sparkling water and fresh berries

France's most celebrated gin house meets the season's best red fruits — Citadelle Rouge is the benchmark for what a fruit-infused dry gin can be.

Producer Description 

Nuance and complex, this shows a floral lilt up front, sequeing into more substantial vanilla and honey aromas.

The palate is relatively dry, with cocoa and leather lightening to ginger spice and hints of tropical fruit.

Producer Description 

Aroma makes a good showing following aeration as succulent, scents of almonds, toasty oak, lanolin, light toffee and paraffin entice the olfactory sense. Marquis de Sauval XO is an aged, sweeter style of Armagnac. This has notes of toffee, honey and nuts.

Producer Description

Ciroc Passion is crafted with vodka from fine French grapes that lend a distinctive citrus taste. Infused with the taste of the tropics, this is vodka bursting with fresh-tasting pineapple, passion fruit, and citrus. Limited.