French Spirits You Should Know Before Mixing

If you want to master the art of French mixology, you first need to understand the local spirits that make the country’s cocktails so unique. France isn’t just about wine — it’s home to some of the most iconic and complex liquors in the world.

Here are some must-know French spirits every cocktail enthusiast should be familiar with before mixing.

Cognac
A double-distilled brandy from the Cognac region, this spirit brings depth and richness to cocktails. Perfect in a Sidecar or French Connection, Cognac adds elegance to any glass.

Armagnac
Often compared to Cognac but bolder and more rustic, Armagnac is ideal for adding a more earthy, robust layer to your cocktails. A splash in an Old Fashioned gives it a French twist.

Chartreuse
This green or yellow herbal liqueur made by monks contains over 130 ingredients. It’s a bold, complex spirit used in cocktails like the Last Word. One of the most unique French spirits, it demands attention.

Cointreau
An orange-flavored triple sec from Angers, Cointreau is a bar essential. It’s found in countless recipes, from Margaritas to Cosmopolitans and the classic Sidecar.

Benedictine
This herbal liqueur is made with 27 plants and spices. It adds warmth and spice to cocktails and is key in drinks like the Singapore Sling or B&B.

Pastis
A traditional anise-flavored spirit popular in the south of France, especially around Nice. It’s usually enjoyed on its own with water, but also adds character to adventurous cocktails.

Calvados
An apple brandy from Normandy, Calvados gives an aromatic kick that works surprisingly well in fall-inspired cocktails. It mixes beautifully with lemon, ginger, or sparkling wine.

At Beer&Dash’s cocktail workshop in Nice, guests often discover these spirits firsthand. Learning how to mix with authentic French ingredients makes the experience even more immersive and fun. Not only do you craft cocktails — you connect with French drinking culture on a deeper level.

So next time you plan to shake or stir a drink, think beyond vodka or gin. French spirits offer variety, richness, and identity. Learning to mix with them turns a basic cocktail into a cultural experience.