Mathilde Liqueurs
by Kevin R. Kosar

This autumn I had the pleasure of sitting down with Nicolas Guindon, an Area Manager for Gabriel & Andreu, a fine French spirits house, for a tasting of Mathilde Liqueurs.  Liqueurs sampled included Peches (Peach), Poires (Pear), Framboise (Raspberry), Cassis (Currant), and Arabica (coffee).  I had not tasted these liqueurs previously and in retrospect I am absolutely thrilled that I did. They are superb.  The alcohol content varies from 18-25 percent, and for a 375 ml. bottle they sell for the very reasonable price of $10-$12.
The Peches is quite pungent, very smooth, and struck me as perfect for pouring over ice cream or for taking chilled. Recommended. (Rating ***3/4)  

The Poires, made from William Bon Chrétien Anjou pears, is exceptionally smooth and sweet.  A truly delightful drink that anyone who enjoys pear will adore. Highly Recommended. (Rating ****)

Next up was the Framboise, which noses of real raspberries, freshly plucked.  Much more modest than the Poires and less sweet, it is more suited to those who are uncomfortable with very sweet alcohols. Recommended. (Rating ***1/4)

The Cassis was rich, almost exuding a tar like (but not burnt) spine.  Both bold and sublime.  If you enjoy Currants, by all means, sample this liqueur. Recommended. (Rating ***3/4)

Last came the Arabica, which I took straight, as I had the others.  It possesses a sweet coffee taste spiced with a bit of chocolate.  Kahlua drinkers and those who enjoy Borghetti Cafe Espresso are urged to give this one a try. Highly Recommended. (Rating ****)