Giffard

The Giffard Liqueurs and Syrups collection is diverse and unique, ranging from classic staples such as Cassis, Orgeat syrup and Curaçao Triple Sec, to contemporary innovations like Banane du Brèsil and Pamplemousse. The collection is anchored by the company's signature liqueur, Menthe Pastille, and then divided into Premium, Specialty and Syrup ranges. The Specialty range being classic liqueurs and Crème de fruits - lower in alcohol content, slightly higher in sugar content, creating a rich viscosity. The Premium range highlights ingredients with unique origins and specific varieties that have celebrated aromas and flavors.Èmile Giffard was a pharmacist with an inventive, curious nature and the palate of a gourmand. In the scorching summer of 1885, in the town of Angers, he was studying the digestive and cooling properties of mint. Giffard's research resulted in the invention of a clear mint liqueur, steam-distilled from the Mitcham variety of peppermint. As delicious as it was refreshing, this liqueur was immediately received with enthusiasm from the townspeople of Angers. Monsieur Giffard's elixir was called Menthe Pastille after the mint candies that were so famous at the time.Giffard parlayed the success of Menthe Pastille into a fully operational distillery. Since 1885, the Giffard facility has produced liqueurs, syrups, cordials and tonics from the rich bounty of local fruits and botanicals as well as the exotic spices and herbs that were brought in by ship on the Loire River from ports around the world. Four generations later, Giffard is owned and operated by brother and sister, Bruno and Edith Giffard, the great-grandchildren of Èmile, who maintain tradition and quality for all of their products.