Laurent Cazottes '72' Tomates Liqueur, France

Laurent Cazottes 72 Tomates Liqueur captures the essence of summer with its innovative and artisanal blend of 72 heirloom tomato varieties, each organically grown amidst the lush biodiversity of Laurent Cazottes' estate in Villeneuve-sur-Vère, Gaillac, France. This unique liqueur marries the savory richness of tomatoes with a subtle sweetness and saline touch, making it a versatile choice for aperitifs and culinary explorations.

Product Details:

• Producer: Laurent Cazottes
• Country: France
• Liqueur Style: Tomato Liqueur
• Ingredients: 72 varieties of ancient tomatoes, Folle Noire grape eau-de-vie, Folle Noire grape sugar
• Production: The tomatoes are dried, destemmed, and the bitter components are removed. The flesh is then macerated in Folle Noire grape eau-de-vie, followed by distillation of the marc, which is then reintegrated into the liqueur.
• Tasting Notes: The liqueur presents a shade between pale orange-pink and salmon pink, bright and luminous, finely veined with purple. It offers a complex bouquet of tomato layers—sweet, bittersweet, bitter, and tart—with a woody backdrop. The palate transitions from dense to delicate, highlighted by notes of bergamot, jasmine, fern, and citrus peel, culminating in a fresh, rich, and mellow finish with dual tones of bitterness and mellowness.

Sensory Description:

Upon tasting, Laurent Cazottes 72 Tomates Liqueur exhibits a vibrant tapestry of flavors and aromas. The initial taste offers a rich thickness, countered by a delicate finesse, creating a surprising contrast. The acidity is balanced, enhancing the material's lightness and preventing it from becoming overly heavy, while the essence of bergamot, jasmine, fern, and citrus peel adds a vertical lift to the flavor profile. The alcohol is well-integrated, providing a comfortable base that supports the complex blend of tomato flavors.

Producer’s Background:

Laurent Cazottes is renowned for distilling exceptional artisan eau de vie from organically farmed fruits at his estate. Each spirit is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the drying of the fruits to the careful distillation process that preserves the purity and intensity of the flavors. The Cazottes distillery is a testament to sustainable practices and a passion for showcasing the natural essence of its ingredients.

Serving Suggestions:

• As an Aperitif: Serve chilled to enhance its fresh, garden-like qualities.
• With Tapas: Pairs beautifully with marinated anchovies or whelks in aïoli.
• In Cocktails: Particularly shines in a Bloody Mary or can be used to create innovative cocktails such as:

• Tomato Martini: Mix with navy-strength gin and dry vermouth for a savory twist on the classic Martini.

• Negroni: Substitute traditional Campari with this tomato liqueur for a unique, savory version of the classic cocktail.

Why Laurent Cazottes 72 Tomates Liqueur? This liqueur is not just a beverage; it's an exploration of flavor and aroma that challenges the conventional uses of tomatoes. It stands out for its ability to bring a fresh and earthy complexity to cocktails and culinary dishes, making it a must-try for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Whether enjoyed alone or as a component in drinks and dishes, Laurent Cazottes 72 Tomates Liqueur offers a unique taste of French artisan liquor craftsmanship, perfect for those seeking to elevate their palate with something truly exceptional.