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.
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Origin: Salers, Cantal (Auvergne)
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Alcohol content: ~16% ABV
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Color: Golden
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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:
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Wild gentian roots harvested in Auvergne
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A cold infusion of thyme, orange peel, and ginger
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Zero artificial flavors or colorants
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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.
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Chilled and neat → for a bold, pure aperitif
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With tonic or sparkling water → a refreshing bitter long drink
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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.