A fascinating liqueur from the Cognac area of France.
This bottling is made using the flowers of grapevines, but not their fruit. The liqueur counts Ugni Blanc (a staple of Cognac production), Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Folle Blanche grape petals amongst its ingredients.
The petals themselves flower for just a few days in June (hence the bottling’s name, which translates as “Spirit of June”), and are handpicked quickly to preserve their delicate flavours and aroma. The petals are infused with a neutral grape spirit and distilled separately in a Florentine still, notable as they are traditionally used in perfume production. The separate distillates are then blended and a small amount of sugar is added.
The result is a surprisingly fruity liqueur, with notes of violet, rose, red berries, funky peach, lychee, cherries, sweet white grapes, orange blossom and other floral flavours.
Delightful over ice, this could also be excellent used in cocktails to add a little floral brightness.