Giffard Piment d’Espelette (Chili Pepper Liqueur)
Bold, aromatic, and uniquely French, Giffard Piment d’Espelette Liqueur captures the mild heat and complex aroma of the AOC Basque chili pepper, blended with pure cane sugar and bottled at 40% ABV.
Crafted by Giffard & Cie, artisans of fine liqueurs since 1885, this expression bridges tradition and innovation - combining the spice of Southern France with the elegance of Loire Valley craftsmanship.
Perfect for bartenders and chefs alike, Giffard Piment d’Espelette adds a refined, warm complexity to cocktails and cuisine - vibrant, savoury, and unmistakably French.
Distinctive, aromatic, and daringly refined, Giffard Piment d’Espelette Liqueur celebrates the vibrant spice and subtle smokiness of the legendary Basque chili pepper. Crafted with true French artistry by Giffard & Cie, liqueur-makers since 1885, this expression balances gentle heat with sweetness, delivering a sophisticated interplay of warmth, fruit, and spice.
At 40% ABV, it’s a powerful yet elegant liqueur that adds a bold accent to cocktails, culinary creations, or neat serves — bringing together the fire of the Basque region and the finesse of Loire Valley craftsmanship.
Founded in Angers, France, Giffard & Cie has spent over 135 years mastering the art of natural maceration, distillation, and blending. Still family-owned, the distillery is synonymous with authenticity, precision, and French savoir-faire.
Piment d’Espelette Liqueur pays tribute to one of France’s most iconic regional ingredients — the mild, aromatic chili of the Basque Country — recognised by AOC designation for its quality and origin. The result is a liqueur that perfectly embodies regional character, craftsmanship, and culinary versatility.
Style: Spiced Botanical Liqueur
Region: Loire Valley, France
Producer: Giffard & Cie
Distillation / Production: Infusion and maceration of AOC Piment d’Espelette peppers in neutral spirit, blended with pure cane sugar
Botanical Source: Piment d’Espelette from the Basque Country (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée)
Maturation: Rested post-maceration for balance and aromatic integration
Cask Influence: None — stainless steel resting to preserve spice purity and freshness
Filtration / Proofing: Lightly filtered for clarity; bottled at natural liqueur strength
Appearance: Golden amber with copper reflections
ABV: 40 %
Nose:
Warm and aromatic — red chili, roasted pepper, and subtle hints of tomato leaf and spice.
Palate:
Smooth and spicy — notes of sweet pepper, gentle smoke, and fruit sweetness balanced by gradual, elegant heat. The flavour builds without overpowering, revealing layers of spice and sweetness.
Finish:
Lingering and warming — peppery, smoky, and slightly earthy with delicate sweetness.
Overall Character:
Complex, savoury, and refined — a unique balance of chili warmth, sweetness, and aromatic depth.
🌶️ One-Liner Flavour Summary
Warm, smoky, and subtly sweet — a refined chili liqueur capturing the essence of France’s famed Piment d’Espelette.
Neat:
Serve slightly chilled as a bold aperitif or digestif with gentle spice warmth.
Cocktails:
A versatile ingredient for creative mixology — adds heat, depth, and intrigue to classic or contemporary serves. Ideal in:
Spicy Margarita
Bloody Maria
Basque Old Fashioned
Smoky Sour
Chili Chocolate Martini
Culinary Use:
Perfect for deglazing sauces, enhancing marinades, or drizzling over dark chocolate desserts.
Food Pairings:
Dark chocolate or chili truffles
Aged cheese or charcuterie
Grilled meats or roasted vegetables
Occasions:
After-dinner tasting flights
Cocktail innovation programs
Gourmet food and spirit pairings
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