Picon is a flavored bitters consumed as an apéritif, traditionally accompanying beer in northern and eastern France. Made from oranges, gentian, and Cinchona, it has an alcohol by volume of 18%.
How it is made
Picon is crafted from dried fresh oranges mixed with an alcohol solution that is distilled. The recipe also includes equal measures of gentian and Cinchona, with sugar, syrup and caramel added at the end to create its caramel color.
History
Created in 1837 by Gaétan Picon after a trip to Algeria, the aperitif was initially 39% ABV. In 1872, Picon established a production factory in Marseille which remains in operation today. The drink's strength was reduced over time, first to 25% in the 1970s and then to 18% in 1989.
Types and styles
Since 1995, Picon has diversified into two aperitifs: the original Picon bière for beer and Picon club for cocktails with dry white wine. Picon Punch is a mixed drink featuring Amer Picon, popular among Basque immigrants in the United States.
How it is served
Picon is traditionally served neat as an apéritif with beer in northern and eastern France. It is also used in cocktails such as Dark Side of the Moon, Tropicon, and Steam Drunk.