Salers: cult liqueur or a place for French craftsmanship?

Salers: A Classic French Aperitif… or Time to Try an Artisanal Alternative?

Salers is a well-known gentian-based aperitif from France’s Auvergne region. With its mild bitterness and regional heritage, it’s a classic in many French households. But today, more and more discerning drinkers are turning to authentic, less sugary, and more flavorful alternatives. Meet the De Michellot artisanal gentian liqueur — a bold, refined take on a time-honored tradition.

What is Salers?

First produced in 1885, Salers is one of France’s oldest commercially available gentian liqueurs. Made from gentian root maceration, it offers a light bitterness and floral notes, usually enjoyed with water or in cocktails.

  • Origin: Salers, Cantal (Auvergne)

  • Alcohol content: ~16% ABV

  • Color: Golden

  • Taste: Mild bitterness, slightly sweet, floral

Often described as a less sweet alternative to Suze, Salers is firmly established as a traditional French aperitif.

Salers vs Artisanal Gentian Liqueur: What’s the Difference?

Criteria Salers De Michellot Gentian Liqueur
Production Industrial Artisanal (cold maceration)
Ingredient origin Not specified Gentian roots from Auvergne
Flavor profile Mild bitterness, sweetened Bold bitterness, herbal, complex
Sweetness Sweet Low sugar, no artificial flavorings
Ideal use Light aperitif High-end aperitif, cocktail base, or digestif
Craft value Low High – small-batch, natural ingredients

👉 Looking for authentic taste and less sugar? Try our signature artisanal gentian:
🔗 Discover De Michellot Gentian Liqueur

A Truly Exceptional Artisanal Liqueur

At De Michellot, we honor the gentian’s Alpine heritage with a bold, small-batch liqueur made from:

  • Wild gentian roots harvested in Auvergne

  • A cold infusion of thyme, orange peel, and ginger

  • Zero artificial flavors or colorants

  • Naturally low in sugar

🌱 Learn more about our approach to gentian

How to Enjoy De Michellot Gentian

Our artisanal gentian liqueur can replace Salers in any setting — but with a deeper, more expressive profile.

  • Chilled and neat → for a bold, pure aperitif

  • With tonic or sparkling water → a refreshing bitter long drink

  • In cocktails → as a high-end substitute for Suze or Salers

👉 Explore our full gentian collection

FAQ – Salers and Gentian Alternatives

Is Salers a gentian liqueur?
Yes, it is made from gentian roots. It’s considered a classic French aperitif.

Is De Michellot’s gentian stronger than Salers?
It’s more intense in flavor, with a dry, bitter edge — but the alcohol content is similar (16% ABV).

Can you substitute Salers in cocktails?
Absolutely. De Michellot Gentian elevates your cocktails with more depth and natural flavor.

Where can I buy a high-quality alternative to Salers?
Right here:
🔗 Order De Michellot Gentian Liqueur

In Summary

Salers is a French classic, but if you’re seeking more authenticity, more bitterness, and less sweetness, try De Michellot’s artisanal gentian liqueur. It’s elegant, raw, and unmistakably French — perfect for aperitifs, cocktails, or sipping after dinner.

🍸 Shop now – Discover the taste of true artisanal gentian