Jean-Philippe Marchand is the winemaker behind a small
range of simply stunning liqueurs. Based in the village of Gevrey Chambertin,
in the heart of the Cote de Nuits, Jean-Philippe has a domaine encompassing
many Premier and Grand Crus and makes excellent wine. However, we are particularly
smitten by his liqueurs - Creme de Peche de Vigne made from small, red, incredibly
concentrated peaches that grow in the vineyards; and a Creme de Mure produced
from wild blackberries; The maceration time of the fruit in spirit is vital,
and this is the clue to Jean-Philippe's success. Greatest flavour is obtained
by leaving the fruit in contact for precisely the optimum time - too long
and the fruit virtually cooks in the alcohol. Each liqueur from Marchand
is a true expression of the fresh fruit from which it is made.
The Peche de Vigne smells and tastes of a fully-ripened
peach - you imagine biting into its soft, furry skin to release the wonderful,
musky peach flavours. The Mure has a wonderfully intoxicating bouquet of
warm, pippy blackberries with perfumed, flowery, violet hints on the palate
and a finish that is pure blackberry crumble.
Marchand's liqueurs are so concentrated that only a
tiny amount added to sparkling or dry white wine makes a superb Kir or cocktail.
The two make splendid after dinner drinks and the Peche de Vigne goes beautifully
with fruity desserts.