Discovering Ratafia: an ancient and flavorful liqueur

Discovering Ratafia: An Ancient and Flavorful Liqueur

What is Ratafia?

Ratafia, also known as Ratafiat, is a liqueur produced by macerating fruits or grape must in alcohol and sugar. Many winemakers traditionally produce their Ratafia after their vinification, each having their own unique recipe. This wine has a long history, dating back to the Roman Empire or the East Indies, depending on the source. It was also the favorite aperitif of Henri Beyle, known as Stendhal. Yet, it is not widely known today. What is Ratafia and what is its history? Why is it less talked about, and how can we rediscover it?

The History of this Wine Liqueur

Ratafia is an ancient beverage, making it impossible to pinpoint its exact origins. It is likely that it has been made since the advent of viticulture. The origin of the name, though controversial, indicates its deep roots.

The most accepted etymology comes from the East Indies. The French discovered that when drinking a glass of this beverage, the locals would toast in Creole. Among the words spoken during this toast was “Tafia,” to which the French would respond with “Ratafia.” Another origin could be even older, from Latin. The words “Rata Fiat” mean “to ratify” in Latin and may have been spoken over a glass of liqueur to celebrate and validate the ratification of a treaty. Whether its name comes from Latin times or the East Indies, one thing is certain: Ratafia has been around for centuries. In France, however, its popularity has declined since World War II in favor of wines. Consequently, winemakers often keep their Ratafia for personal use rather than commercializing it.

This "Winemaker's Aperitif" has been protected under IGP since January 22, 2015.

The Production Process

Producing Ratafia requires an alcohol base and the addition of fruits. In Champagne, Ratafia is made from grape varieties authorized in the AOP Champagne: mainly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Pinot Meunier.

The alcohol base is usually marc-de-champagne, a neutral-tasting brandy obtained by distilling the grape marc used in Champagne production. Depending on the producer's choice, it can be used young or aged in barrels. But Ratafia Champenois can also be made from wine brandy, wine distillate, or a vinous distillate.

To create Ratafia, the winemaker adds unfermented grape marc to the alcohol base to achieve the distinctive liqueur. This process combines a strong alcoholic content (about 17%) with pronounced grape aromas thanks to the preserved sugar.

Aromas, Tasting, and Pairing

Ratafia offers an aromatic profile that is strong in alcohol, flavor, and sweetness. The aromas vary according to the recipes and terroirs, much like Champagne wines. However, unlike Champagne, it is not sparkling. It is a smooth and expressive drink that highlights and enhances the aromas of dried fruits, candied fruits, honey, flowers, and citrus, characteristic of the region's grape varieties.

This aromatic profile makes it an excellent alternative to fortified wines, such as Port. It can accompany aperitifs, as well as end-of-meal dishes or cheeses. It is also used in cocktails or cooking to flavor dishes and create innovative flavor combinations. As an appetizer, it pairs well with summer fruits like melons and watermelons or festive foie gras. For dessert, it complements fruits and chocolates, as well as fondants and cakes. Or simply enjoy it as an aperitif or digestif.

FAQ - Ratafia Champenois

What is ratafia champenois?

It is a wine liqueur made in Champagne, protected by an IGP since 22 January 2015. The winemaker blends an alcohol base, often marc de Champagne, with unfermented grape must from the AOP Champagne grape varieties. It sits at around 17% alcohol.

What is the difference between ratafia and champagne?

Both come from the same Champagne grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, but ratafia is not sparkling. It is a sweet, smooth liqueur, whereas champagne is a dry sparkling wine. Ratafia is also stronger, at about 17% alcohol.

How do you drink ratafia champenois?

Serve it chilled, as an aperitif or a digestif. Its sweetness pairs with foie gras, cheeses, summer fruits such as melon, and fruit or chocolate desserts. It also works in cocktails or in cooking to flavour a dish.

What alcohol is ratafia champenois made with?

The base is usually marc de Champagne, a neutral brandy distilled from the grape marc left after pressing. It can be used young or after ageing in barrels. Ratafia can also be built on a wine brandy or a vinous distillate.

Why is ratafia called the winemaker's aperitif?

Many Champagne winemakers make it at the end of their vinification, each with their own recipe, and keep it for their own table. Production stays small, which is why it is rarely found outside the estates.