So how did you pronounce Byrrh? Like you are cold? Brrrr… Well like me you are wrong, but if you like beer like me then you will like the true pronunciation of Byrrh. Drumroll…. Beer (I have also heard bee-air… yes sounds even more sophisticated!) …. I do like beer but I do prefer Brrr! Beer Grand Quinquina is not as cool as a Brrrr Grand Quinquina!
As an FYI for those unfamiliar with the term, quinquina, it is a fortified wine that is infused with chinchona bark, a source of quinine; the quinine in the bark gives adds a tonic water-like taste to the quinquina.
The story of Byrrh “Beer” began in 1866 when two brothers who were traveling merchants Simon and Pallade Violet opened a shop in Thuir in the South of France. They had a few small barrels of wine macerated in small oak barrels enriched with plant extracts and enhanced with cinchona bark (quinine). Byrrh Grand Quinquina has a perfect balance between fruitiness and spices. At first called simply “Hygienic Tonic Wine with Cinchona”, which you know sounds like a spectacular name! I can only image the order at the local tavern! The beverage was ultimately was named Byrrh in 1876 and the company grew and still exists today for you to enjoy.
Here in the U.S. we now have access to a growing number of European spirits, but of course we like to mix everything and there is nothing wrong with that, but I say give it a try first on the rocks with a twist of lime or lemon your choice! With that said there are a few options under the Libations section. Enjoy!
ABV/Proof: 18%/36
Producer: France
Website: Haus Alpenz.
