Suze: discover the artisanal alternative to the famous gentian liqueur

Suze is a name that every aperitif lover knows. This gentian-based drink, with its bitter and unmistakable taste, has become a symbol of the French aperitif. But did you know that there are artisanal versions that are more intense, more natural, and more authentic than Suze? Discover De Michellot gentian liqueur , a real gem from the French terroir.

What is Suze?

Launched in the late 19th century, Suze is an aperitif liqueur made from gentian roots , highly prized for its mild bitterness, golden color, and low alcohol content (15% vol.). It is often served diluted with water, in cocktails, or even neat over ice.

Taste: Sweet bitter, floral, slightly sweet
Use: Classic aperitif or cocktail base
Popularity: Very widespread in French homes

Suze vs. artisanal gentian liqueur: what’s the difference?

Element Suze Michellot Gentian Liqueur
Origin Food industry French artisanal manufacturing
Ingredients Gentian, flavorings, colorings Auvergne gentian roots, wild thyme, orange tree
Manufacturing method Standardized production Slow cold maceration
Taste Bittersweet, sweet Intense bitter, complex, herbaceous
Sugar Here Very low, no sweeteners
Ideal for Classic cocktails Sharp aperitifs, high-end cocktails, digestifs


Why choose an alternative to Suze?

If you like Suze, you'll love the artisanal gentian liqueur even more. It offers:

  • A richer and less sweet aromatic profile

  • Complete transparency on ingredients

  • A return to the roots of French know-how

  • True authenticity in every sip

👉 Discover our flagship product:
🔗 Gentiane De Michellot – Artisanal liqueur with character

A gentian liqueur designed as a work of art

Our artisanal gentian liqueur is produced in small quantities with:

  • Gentian roots harvested in Auvergne

  • A blend of French plants (wild thyme, orange blossom, ginger)

  • A natural cold maceration , without aromas or colorings

Each bottle reflects a commitment to:

  • The quality

  • Respect for the land

  • The aromatic richness

🌿 Learn more about our approach to gentian

How to enjoy Michellot’s artisanal gentian?

→ As an aperitif : Pure and fresh, for an elegant bitter
→ In cocktails : Replace Suze in all your classics with more character
→ As a digestif : A powerful and racy finish to conclude a good meal

Cocktail ideas:

  • Gentiane Tonic (premium version of the classic Suze Tonic)

  • Mountain Spritz

  • French Negroni

🔎 Discover our collection of gentian liqueurs

FAQ – Suze and artisanal alternatives

Is Suze a gentian liqueur?
Yes, but it's sweet and industrialized. There are artisanal versions like De Michellot's, which are more intense and natural.

Is Suze considered a digestif?
It is traditionally served as an aperitif, but a more robust gentian liqueur like that of De Michellot can also be enjoyed as a digestif.

Which alternative to Suze should you choose?
Opt for a craft liqueur like Gentiane De Michellot , made with raw ingredients and French know-how.

Can you make the same cocktails with a homemade gentian?
Yes, and they will often be more aromatic, less sweet and more complex.

In summary

La Suze remains a classic, but if you're looking for more authenticity , less sugar , more character , turn to a craft gentian liqueur . At De Michellot, we offer you a distinguished, noble and profoundly French product.

🍸 → Order your bottle of artisanal gentian