Erika Spirits
Gin, Vodka
Cognac, France
A range of French craft spirits distilled with honey and pollen
Created by
Three Passionate Childhood Friends
Paul
Vianney
Thibault
The Origin Story
A Sudden Inspiration
A beekeeper, a professional chef, and a mixologist walk into a bar. This is the story of Paul, Vianney, and Thirion - three childhood friends who grew up together in the south west of France. One evening in late 2017 they were all sitting around a restaurant table together in Bordeaux, chatting about different types of spirits, notably gins. Then, the idea hit them - why not try to make their own? By 2018, they put their words into action, and created their first spirit, Erika Dry Gin.
Bee-lief In Their Idea
It only took one evening for the guys to make up their mind. Erika Spirits was going to happen. They started figuring out the methods and logistics, with a few crucial points in mind. Their gins were to be made with a juniper base and would incorporate honey from Paul’s bee farm. The name, Erika Spirits, comes from the “Erica” plant species from which the nectar for their honey is derived. The Erica species includes over 850 flowering plants that are also commonly known as “heaths” or “heathers.”
“Honey, I’m Home!”
From the start, it has been important for Erika Spirits to develop our own recipes, in an artisanal and local way. They support local farmers and producers, sourcing as many ingredients as possible from the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in south-west France. Over time they have built up a network of small distributors and artisans to help in the creation of their products. Through Erika Spirits, they hope to help you discover unique flavours and botanicals, while contributing to the development of their region and respecting its seasonality.
The secret sauce
A still with a difference
Before producing their own gin, the team called upon Philippe Laclie - the director of the ancient Bercloux distillery in Cognac. Philippe uses a Stupfler still, which differs from ordinary stills as it can distill liquids containing solid parts. As the first Erika gin contains eight different botanicals, this was an attractive feature for them. The aromas and flavours produced using this method retain an incredible freshness and authenticity.
Remembering the roots
Since its quiet beginning around a dinner table, Erika Spirit has expanded to produce a variety of craft gins and, as of recently, their own vodka. Paul, Vianney and Thibault never lose sight of their values and ethics as they keep on creating new spirits. They continue to source locally, aim for exceptional quality, and never forget the natural honey source that gave them their name.