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mistelle

a fortified apéritif

Vin de liqueur au quinquina

Mistelle (‘the little mix’) is eau-de-vie or brandy added to non-fermented or partially fermented fruit juice (white grape, apple or pear). Becauses the addition of alcohol stops the fermentation and the change of sugars into alcohol, mistelle is sweeter than fully fermented juice. Pineau des Charentes, Macvin-de-Jura, Pommeau de Normandie and Floc de Gascogne are classic examples.

A mistelle is added at certain stages in the making of vermouths and various apéritifs.

Drinks

Text © Dana Facaros

Image by Unknown 1930s