When it comes to French inspiration, the Melbourne suburb we live in is really rather lacking. We have the usual discount stores offering French styled ‘tat’, (as my dear friend Suz would say) and a bakery or two that offer a croissant. But, disappointingly for me, not much else.
One place that I can find a little taste of France is in the local Fine Wine cellar. The proprietor, Justin, stocks all sorts of interesting bits and pieces – and he doesn’t limit himself to wine (French or otherwise). From international beers through to the best paella rice, you can find all sorts of gourmet delights in Justin’s store.
When Scott and I dropped in on the weekend to pick up some dried porcini mushrooms, Justin was very keen to introduce us to Le Birlou, a French liqueur he’d recently discovered. Crafted from apples and chestnuts, the flavour was somewhat reminiscent of apple pie!
Our conversation rather naturally moved to French liqueurs in general. A comparison of tastes including names like Cointreau, Grand Marnier and Pastis seemed absolutely necessary.
Now, I know you can guess where I am going, but to Frenchify Your Friday this week, I’m thinking you should find and taste a French liqueur. You are sure to find a flavour that suits your palate. Apples, oranges, chocolate, aniseed – you name it and the French have created a liqueur from it.
Enjoy responsibly, and all the best for a fabulous Friday.
Until next time – au revoir.
Please note: This is an unsolicited post and no compensation of any kind has been received from the brands named in the post.
6 thoughts on “Frenchify Your Friday – Number 61”
Pastis is the ubiquitous aperitif in the summer in the south of France. it turns cloudy when ice and water are added (6-10 times more water than alcohol). Favorite brands around here are Ricard and 51. Slang for a pastis is “un petit jaune,”–a little yellow [one].”
A nice liqueur for after dinner is Calvados, served straight.
We are sadly lacking in all things French here in Hobart, apart from one patisserie/bakery which is hard to get to on a regular basis.
However, I keep the French in my life having sourced a decent croissant supplier and Gary and I try and go out together to a nice bar for a drink at least once a week. It just keeps me feeling a little bit French.
I meant to say… I like St Germaim, added to a cocktail or soda, it is a lovely gentle drink for a summers day.
It is funny that you mention St Germain Claire. Scotty and I were admiring the shape of the bottle the other day – however neither of us have ever tried it. Might have to now that we have your recommendation!!
St Germain is elderflower liqueur. Lovely if you like elderflower.
I’ve saw it in a lot of Instagram photos some time back when photos of bar carts were popular.
All the little things definitely help Claire!!!!