Picon Bière Review - Famed French Bitters Used For Shandy

In this video, CP reviews Picon Bière. Learn about this French bitters liquor as we explore it in detail.

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00:00 Introduction
Amer Picon Bière was reviewed using the Bespoke Unit Liquor Formula, a quantifiable review matrix that you can use online or quickly refer to if you're in a hurry.

00:34 Overview
In 1837, Gaétan Picon was stationed in Algeria when he served as part of the French army. It is there that he invented Picon which at the time was called African Amer. After returning to France in 1872, Gaétan started its production in Marseille.

Picon Biere is made by combining gentian with quinquina as well as sugar, syrup, and caramel to round off the taste. The ingredients are steeped in orange peels and likely distilled again. While Picon Biere used to be stronger, today it is 18% ABV.

Picon is very popular in the USA, particularly in Idaho, however, it remains relatively elusive and hard to find.

02:19 Robe & Appearance
Picon is a deep, dark color and slightly hazy. It produces a very sticky residue as a result of the aforementioned caramel and syrup additives. In the glass, the legs are slow but thin, and the

02:52 Nose
Picon Biere's nose is warm and oily. It has a distinct aroma of orange peels along with wine and spice that results in a prickly bouquet. Overall, the nose is rich without being intense; the notes are diverse with some nuances, however, it is not too complex.

03:16 Palate
The primary flavor of Picon is, unsurprisingly, bitter. The mouthfeel is oily, much like the nose. The opening presents orange peel and wine also detected in the nose, although there probably isn't wine here. There is a thick fruitiness and then a zesty hint of lemon.

In the heart, there are more prominent spice notes including nutmeg and some bitterness that is reminiscent of grapefruit. In the finish, the bitterness crescendos in the center of the palate.

With Picon Biere, you can expect some gentian, quinine, and finally caramel that softens the taste into a lingering and pleasant finish.

All in all, Picon is approachable and not too complex, though it can be a bit overwhelming for those who don't enjoy bitter drinks such as black coffee. Yet, when paired with beer, it definitely adds substance to a refreshing blonde beer.

The texture is smooth if a bit heavy on the palette. The maturity is basically nonexistent, but it does feel like time was taken to produce it. Picon provides a pleasurable stimulation, even if it's dominated by the prominent sweet and bitter notes. You'll also some savory and sour elements that provide a full palette and experience.

05:23 Overall Experience
Picon's bottle is classic with a glued label and a normal screw-top cap. The label mentions awards yet none seem to be from the 20th century.

In terms of value, you can probably buy this for $25 in the USA, if you can find it at all. In France, you can pick this up for just about 10 Euros so it's truly quite affordable and long-lasting.

06:32 Occasion
In terms of occasion, this isn't something that you drink formally. It is a very casual drink enjoyed for refreshment and is definitely not a spirit you'd see at a black-tie affair. Occasionally, some families may enjoy it neat at dinners as a digestif.

07:08 Cocktail Suggestions
Picon Bière is best enjoyed in beer as a shandy. There is another version called Picon Amer and that is made for mixing in cocktails. Picon punch is a popular cocktail that consists of Amaro liqueur or traditionally Picon Bière, soda water, grenadine, a splash of lemon, and a bit of brandy.

Otherwise, you could probably use this as part of a Negroni. In that case, you'd also be using Armagnac or cognac instead.

08:14 Pairings
You could consider pairing Picon with a game stew or a filet mignon, but it's best paired with salty snacks such as nuts or potato chips.

For cigar pairings, consider a Plasencia Alma del Fuego which is very full-bodied and spicy, or an Oliva Serie V Melanio. If you want to try it neat and don't have either of these cigars at hand, consider something spicy, full body and full of flavor as they'll complement Picon very well.

Already tried Picon Bière or have any questions? Leave us a comment to let us know your thoughts!

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