Suze vs Salers vs Avèze vs De Michellot: 2026 Gentian Liqueur Comparison
De Michellot
Suze®, Salers®, Avèze®, Bonal® are registered trademarks belonging to their respective owners (Pernod-Ricard, Distillerie Labounoux, Bardinet, etc.).
Suze vs Salers vs Avèze vs De Michellot: 2026 Gentian Comparison
Looking to compare French gentian liqueurs? Suze® (Pernod-Ricard giant), Salers (Auvergne artisan since 1885), Avèze (Bardinet), Bonal Quinquina, or the new wave like De Michellot? This 2026 comparison.
Suze (Pernod-Ricard)
Bitter aperitif founded in 1889 by Henri Porte. Now Pernod-Ricard. ABV 15%, price €22. Global distribution, undisputed leader in gentian.
Salers (Labounoux)
Distillerie Labounoux Plomb-du-Cantal, established in 1885. Artisan gentian liqueur from Auvergne. ABV 16%, price €26. Artisanal reference in the Massif Central.
Avèze (Bardinet)
Avèze brand (1929), now Bardinet (La Martiniquaise group). Gentian aperitif. ABV 15%, price €22.
Bonal Quinquina
Bonal Gentiane-Quina, created in 1865 by the Frères de Saint-Bruno. Flavored with quinine. ABV 16%, price €24.
De Michellot (Auvergne)
3-generation family distillery from Auvergne. 70cl gentian liqueur 24% (the most alcoholic in the segment), price €23. Long maceration, local root sourcing. Professional 5L format available.
Comparison Table
| Criterion | Suze | Salers | Avèze | Bonal | De Michellot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 1889 | 1885 | 1929 | 1865 | 1950+ |
| Owner | Pernod-Ricard | Labounoux | Bardinet | Bonal | De Michellot Family |
| Method | Industrial | Artisanal | Industrial | Artisanal | Artisanal Maceration |
| ABV | 15% | 16% | 15% | 16% | 24% |
| Price 70cl | €22 | €26 | €22 | €24 | €23 |
How to choose?
Global bitter aperitif tradition: Suze. Pure artisanal Auvergne tradition: Salers. Mixology + pronounced bitterness: De Michellot 24%. Pro: 5L De Michellot.
FAQ
Is Suze gentian 100% pure gentian? Suze contains gentian + other bitter plants (quinine, bark, citrus). A true gentian liqueur (De Michellot, Salers) = single-varietal.
Why is gentian bitter? Gentiana lutea roots contain bitter principles (gentiopicrin, amarogentin).
Conclusion
The De Michellot Gentian Liqueur 70cl 24% at €23 — an artisanal French alternative.
Alcohol abuse is dangerous. Comparison in accordance with art. L. 122-1.
