Uncommon: a Parisian bar launches one of the first French hard-seltzers

When it comes to have a drink with friends, each one of them has their favorite drink. For some, it is a very refreshing pint, for others, it is a glass of wine, or cocktail, or even soft. But there is something new, about to get in the arena of French aperitifs. Here is hard-seltzer.

You may be wondering what this is about. This new and lightly alcoholic drink (up to 4 to 6%) is very in on the American continent, and especially the United-States. It could be described as sparkling flavored and alcoholic water. And if American brands such as White Claw have not taken over France yet, a harsh competition expects them with a low-calorific Parisian version.

In Paris, a bar with a very strong personality has been taking up the challenge and offers its own version of this overseas drink. This is the Syndicat des Alcools Français, an address very well known by cocktail connoisseurs looking for exclusive gustatory experience. Proud as a peacock of the French know-how, the Syndicat has made the most of lockdown to start this incredible journey. And this is how was born Fefe, one of the first French hard seltzers you can now drink or buy at the Syndicat Cocktail Club and the Commune set in Belleville.

To make this exclusive drink, the Syndicat has canned everything that makes the French art de vivre. The recipes are the outcome of a fascinating collaboration between shaker genius – the bartenders of the two Parisian addresses – and the “noses” of the Maison Jean Niel set in Grasse. This is neither more nor less the ancient home of French aromatic and perfumery working with the greatest luxury brands in France. Each step of the way is made in France, up to the very design of the can. Fefe has been calling in the most creative spirits of the Studio Volubile artists, inspired by the fashion world, specialized in wines & spirits.

• To be read
• Unusual bars in Paris to discover!
• The best speakeasies in Paris: where to find these hidden bars with well-kept secrets
• Guide to drinking alcohol-free cocktails in Paris

We get it, a wonderful team has been part of the Fefe project. But in the end, how does it turn out? The first recipe currently available as an experimental drink unveils hints of mint, bergamot citrus and cardamom. Of course, far from the “chemical” and artificial flavors found in some flavored waters, this French version of the hard seltzer genuinely tastes natural and is a super-refreshing alternative for sun-filled aperitifs. Very light, and low in calories, stay cautious: Fefe is an alcoholic drink (5%), and you end up feeling it. So, go slow!

Moreover, if you are into mixology, this new drink may inspire you. You can enjoy it on its own (as an alternative to beer, for instance), or in a cocktail as it brings a fresh and sour touch. If you feel intrigued, head to the Syndicat Cocktail Club to discover the Frenchy recipes the dream team has created with this first recipe. From revisited gin tonic to Norman-inspired aperitif featuring Fefe, this new hard-seltzer has more than one trick up its can.

And starting from September, the experimental version of Fefe will be replaced by four recipes, including the one you have premiered. We do not know about you, but we cannot wait to discover what is yet to come.

Ready to try it?

Alcohol abuse is bad for your health, please drink responsibly.