Ready to push your savory cocktail game past the Bloody Mary? Our Aqua Perfecta Basil Eau de Vie adds an exuberantly herbaceous note to any savory cocktail you can think of, and also works beautifully with all types of stone fruit, berries, and melon.
Format: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Availability: Available in many markets
A fantastic tomato season inspired master distiller Lance Winters to create our Basil Eau de Vie. His goal was to create a spirit that would complement the fresh, savory nature of garden-fresh summer tomatoes, but this heady spirit goes well with all manner of produce.
We start with a base spirit of brandy, which gives the palate richness without distracting from the basil. Then we distill two varieties of this revered herb to create a lush, dynamic spirit that expresses the beauty of basil in all its glory. Fresh Genovese basil gives body and flavor, while fresh Thai basil lends spice and top notes.
We put both Thai and Genovese basil right into the pot of one of our 250-liter custom copper stills. Distilling the herbs directly instead of using steam extraction gives us lots of concentrated licorice, fresh fennel, and sweet grassy notes that wouldn’t be as apparent otherwise.
On the nose, Aqua Perfecta Basil Eau de Vie leads with bright anise notes that give way to a classic Italian basil freshness. On the palate, you’ll find an interesting journey as warm menthol notes give way to rich vegetal flavors before finishing with a light sweetness. Try our Basil Eau de Vie in a Gimlet, with fresh tomato water, or with any type of agua fresca (watermelon and strawberry are favorites). It also works well with Thai flavors, like lemongrass or coconut water. And if you’re in the mood for something luxurious, try sipping it chilled alongside caviar.
