Eau de vie is a French term that translates to "water of life" in English. It refers to a category of alcoholic spirits that are clear, colorless, and highly aromatic. Eau de vie is typically made from the fermented juice or pulp of various fruits, such as apples, pears, plums, cherries, or grapes.
The production process begins with the fruit, which is carefully selected, crushed, and fermented to convert the sugars into alcohol. The resulting liquid is then distilled to separate the alcohol from impurities and other undesirable elements. Unlike other spirits, eau de vie is usually distilled at a higher concentration to retain the purest and most intense flavors of the fruit.
Eau de vies are renowned for their vibrant and fruity aromas, which resemble the essence of the particular fruit used in its production. They have a strong and often fiery taste due to their high alcohol content, which typically ranges from 40% to 70% by volume. Due to their potency, eau de vies are often enjoyed as digestive or after-dinner drinks.
These spirits can be sipped neat, providing a burst of natural fruit flavors with a warming sensation, or they can be used in cocktails and culinary creations to impart a distinct fruity character. With their complex and authentic fruit profiles, eau de vies have become a favored choice among discerning spirits enthusiasts and mixologists seeking to infuse their creations with natural and vibrant aromas.
