ROCHELT 2017 Sureau Noir

Black elderberry, or “elder tree,” is one of the most common shrubs in Central Europe. Its small white flowers bloom in early summer and are immediately recognizable by their fresh, fruity scent. These flowers gradually turn into deep red, then black berries, producing a dark burgundy juice. Raw elderberries are inedible and must be cooked or fermented before consumption. Rich in vitamin C, both flowers and berries are widely used in juices, syrups, herbal teas, and jams. The brandy made from fully ripe elderberries is a rare and highly prized specialty. Our black elderberries are sourced from Lower Austria, grown without any treatment in ideal climatic conditions. They are hand-picked at full ripeness and fermented on the very day of harvest, directly at the grower’s site. The 100% natural berry mash is then double-distilled with great care in a copper pot still. Over 50 kg of berries are needed to produce just one liter of brandy. The precious heart of the distillate is then aged for at least ten years to reach full maturity. With time, the alcohol softens, allowing the delicate aromas of dark berries to shine through, enhanced by velvety notes of spice and chocolate.