Bénédictine D.O.M. 2026: 27 Plants, Monastic History, Recipes

Bénédictine D.O.M. (Deo Optimo Maximo - "To God, Most Good, Most Great") is a French liqueur created in 1510 by Benedictine monks of the Fécamp Abbey in Normandy. ABV 40%. Recipe with 27 plants, flowers, and spices. Today owned by Bacardi.

History — From Abbey to Bacardi

Recipe created in 1510 by Dom Bernardo Vincelli. Lost during the French Revolution, it was reconstituted in 1863 by Alexandre Le Grand from the monks' manuscripts. The Palais Bénédictine in Fécamp, built in 1888, houses the museum and distillery. Acquired by Bacardi in 1988.

The 27 Ingredients of Bénédictine

Confidential recipe but identified: angelica, hyssop, lemon balm, arnica, saffron, mace, juniper, myrrh, aloe, tea, thyme, coriander, clove, lemon, vanilla, orange peel, juniper berries, cinnamon, honey, and other aromatic plants. Quadruple distillation then blending.

Bénédictine vs B&B (Brandy and Benedictine)

B&B = Bénédictine + cognac blend (60/40). Created in 1937 to meet American demand for a less sweet taste. ABV 40%. Favorite cocktail of New York bartenders in the 1930s.

5 Iconic Bénédictine Cocktails

Singapore Sling (gin + Bénédictine + cherry brandy + lemon + pineapple), Vieux Carré (whisky + Bénédictine + cognac + vermouth), Frisco Sour (whisky + Bénédictine + lemon), Honeymoon (Bénédictine + Calvados + curaçao), Widow's Kiss (Calvados + Bénédictine + yellow Chartreuse).

French Artisan Alternative

For lovers of monastic herbal liqueurs, French artisan alternatives: De Michellot gentian liqueur, verbena, génépi.

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Bénédictine®, B&B® are registered trademarks of Bacardi.