Vincent - alcohol-free - Apéritif

Photo: Oliver Schwarzwald

The taste of the south

The traditional distillery Schladerer from Staufen in the south of Germany is actually known for its high-quality fruit brandies. I can refer to a very rich experience in this regard. But no further comment on that.... Fortunately, since 2020, there has finally been an alcohol-free alternative with the Apéritif Vincent. This is produced with the same care and the same basic ingredients as its alcoholic counterpart. Fine macerates of gentian, raspberry leaves, herbs and juice of fresh raspberries are used. On the nose, the sweetness predominates over the bitter notes. Aromas of very ripe raspberry, cherry, orange and honey are followed by tart, spicy schinus berry, lovage and a little gentian. Bitter and sweet also alternate harmoniously in taste. While the tart notes of cinchona bark, gentian and lovage provide the basis, the sweet and well-developed flavours of raspberry, cherry, honey and grapefruit are suitably layered on top. The good finish continues to be sweet rather than too bitter. Powerful notes of raspberry, cinchona bark and gentian linger. But this seems to be a point of criticism for some testers. For me, it's just the opposite, because I'm not a fan of drinks that are too bitter. With Schaldere Vincent, there is still enough room for a good tonic water without letting everything drown in a sea of bitter tones. For me, it's a new permanent member of Team Zero from now on.