Spirits Class – Eau-de-vie

Eau-de-vie, French for “water of life,” was once a general term for distilled spirits. It’s analogs in other languages include whiskey, aquavit, and even vodka, although that really just translates to “water.” Despite the generic name, eau-de-vie now refers to a specific category of spirit, albeit one not familiar to general American audiences. Eau-de-vie are unaged brandies made from fruit, not to be confused with their sweetened cousins, the fruit-based liqueur. An eau-de-vie captures the pure, unadulterated essence of a delicate fruit in pure liquid form.

In this class, you will taste examples of eau-de-vie, including classic French, German, and Austrian expressions along with some more modern, experimental spirits.  You will learn how the subtle flavors are achieved through traditional fermentation and distillation methods and how these spirits are traditionally consumed. Experience flavor you did not think possible in spirits that are neither aged nor flavored. Come enjoy the wonderful world of eau-de-vie