Salers, Aperitif

Salers Aperitif is the oldest and most traditional aperitif of France's Massif Central region, crafted according to a recipe dating back to 1885. Created by Alfred Labounoux at his family distillery, the aperitif is named after the village of Salers, where gentian—the root that bitters this distinctive spirit—grew wild on the volcanic slopes of Puy Mary. Gentiane Lutea, the species used in Salers, takes approximately twenty years to mature fully and flowers only every two years, with individual roots weighing 3–6 kg each and harvested using specialized tools from June through September. The secret recipe of herbs is bittered with Gentiane root from the Auvergne region and mellowed in Limousin oak, creating a distinctive bittersweet liqueur with earthy vegetal notes complemented by hints of citrus peel, mint, and anise. Traditional French aperitif culture centers on this spirit—enjoyed over ice with a twist of lemon, or incorporated into classic cocktails. A moment of authentic French terroir and tradition in a glass.