The Celebrated French Aperitif Brand Introduces An Extraordinary 2009 Vintage

25 Apr 2013 --- Maison Lillet is proud to announce the release of Reserve Jean de Lillet 2009 (SRP $39.99), an extraordinary, limited-edition vintage cuvee, which represents the brand’s commitment to bring awareness to and continue to evolve the aperitif category.

This premium reserve of Lillet is a unique creation blended with the 2009 vintage wine from the Sauternes region of Bordeaux. Similar to its other varieties, the Jean de Lillet then carefully adds an artisanal orange liqueur crafted from sweet orange peels from Spain and bitter oranges from Haiti, a small amount of quinine from Peru is also added to the blend. The aperitif then went through a more extensive aging process – similar to a Bordeaux grand cru – including 12 months in French oak barrels, a third of this time in new oak barrels. This allows delicate aromas to develop to their full elegance, while the fruit liqueurs round and release their fresh and subtle scents.

The resulting taste is more complex and a fuller bodied aperitif of candied orange, honey, dried fruits and subtle spices. Jean de Lillet can be enjoyed immediately but will also improve with age (recommended aging is ten to 15 years). Its recommended serving is an aperitif, chilled and served neat. Drop in a star anise to elevate the fruity notes and aromas.

Lillet was established in 1872 by wine merchants Paul and Raymond Lillet in the heart of Bordeaux wine country. Every stage of production takes place at the Lillet distillery in Podensac and has remained consistent throughout the years. The secret ingredients are unchanged and the proprietary recipe is closely guarded by the cellar master, ensuring Lillet’s iconic status as the Quintessential Aperitif of Bordeaux.

The concept of assembling vintage cuvees was important to the Lillet brothers and the Maison has kept this age-old winemaking tradition going through the production of Jean de Lillet cuvees, which he started in 1993. The name Jean de Lillet is a tribute to the Lillet family’s earliest known ancestor who settled in Podensac, France, in 1680.

Although just launching to the public, Jean de Lillet has already garnered top industry accolades, receiving the top honor Chairman’s Trophy in the Aperitif category in the 2013 Ultimate Spirits Challenge with a score of 92.

Produced in limited quantities, beginning April 30th Jean de Lillet will be available for purchase through Astorwines.com as well as select New York and San Francisco retailers.