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:
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A richer and less sweet aromatic profile
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Complete transparency on ingredients
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A return to the roots of French know-how
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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:
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Gentian roots harvested in Auvergne
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A blend of French plants (wild thyme, orange blossom, ginger)
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A natural cold maceration , without aromas or colorings
Each bottle reflects a commitment to:
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The quality
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Respect for the land
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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:
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Gentiane Tonic (premium version of the classic Suze Tonic)
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Mountain Spritz
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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.