As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the vast world of spirits and one particular potent brandy that stands out is eau-de-vie. Eau-de-vie, which translates to “water of life” in French, is a distilled spirit made from various fruits, most commonly grapes but also plums, cherries, apples, and berries.
The process of making eau-de-vie begins with the fermentation of the fruit juice, where natural sugars are converted into alcohol. This fermented fruit juice is then distilled, a process that involves heating the liquid to separate the alcohol from the other components. The resulting distillate is a clear and colorless spirit, often with a high alcohol content ranging between 40% and 45% ABV (alcohol by volume), equivalent to 80 to 90 proof.
What makes eau-de-vie unique is its intense fruit flavors that are captured during the distillation process. Unlike other brandies, which are often aged in wooden barrels, eau-de-vie is typically bottled shortly after distillation to preserve its vibrant and fresh fruit character. This means that each batch of eau-de-vie can showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the specific fruit it is made from.
One of the most well-known eau-de-vie is made from grapes and is called “eau-de-vie de vin” or “eau-de-vie de raisin.” These grape-based eau-de-vie can vary in flavor profiles, ranging from the crisp and clean notes of a young eau-de-vie made from unaged wine, to the complex and nuanced flavors of an aged eau-de-vie that has spent time in oak barrels.
However, eau-de-vie is not limited to grapes alone. Other fruits can also be used to create this potent brandy. Plum eau-de-vie, known as “eau-de-vie de prune,” is particularly popular in some regions, such as Eastern Europe. The plums used for distillation are carefully selected for their flavor and aroma, resulting in a spirit that captures the essence of the fruit.
Cherry eau-de-vie, or “eau-de-vie de cerise,” is another delightful variation of this fruit brandy. Made from a selection of cherries, the eau-de-vie exhibits a rich and intense cherry flavor, with a hint of sweetness and tartness. It can be enjoyed on its own as a digestif or used as a base for cocktails, adding a burst of fruity character.
Apples are also used to create eau-de-vie, known as “eau-de-vie de pomme.” The resulting spirit showcases the crisp and refreshing flavors of the apple, with a subtle sweetness that is balanced by the high alcohol content. This apple eau-de-vie can be a delightful addition to a cheese platter or enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif.
In addition to these fruits, eau-de-vie can also be made from a variety of berries, such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. These berry eau-de-vie often have a vibrant and intense fruit flavor, with a slight tartness that adds complexity to the spirit.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting a range of eau-de-vie made from different fruits. Each one has its own unique character and flavor profile, providing a glimpse into the essence of the fruit it is made from. The purity and intensity of the fruit flavors in eau-de-vie make it a truly special and potent brandy.
Eau-de-vie is a potent brandy that is distilled from various fruits, including grapes, plums, cherries, apples, and berries. It is characterized by its high alcohol content and intense fruit flavors, capturing the essence of the fruit it is made from. Whether enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails, eau-de-vie offers a delightful and unique drinking experience.