When it comes to fruit-based spirits, grappa and eau de vie represent two classic approaches to capturing the essence of fruit in liquid form. Both are known for their versatility and cultural importance, but they differ in production methods, ingredients, and flavour profiles. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between grappa and eau de vie while introducing Dappa and Dark Fire, our British alternatives to traditional grappa.
What is Grappa?
Grappa is an Italian spirit made from the leftover grape skins, seeds, and stems (pomace) after the grapes have been pressed for wine. Originating from Italy’s winemaking tradition, it was initially created to ensure that no part of the grape harvest went to waste.
At Devon Distillery, we follow these same principles with our British interpretation of grappa, known as Dappa. While not technically able to be called grappa, since it’s made outside of Italy, Dappa is crafted using the same methods, with grape pomace sourced from UK vineyards. The result is a spirit that captures the essence of the grapes used in winemaking. For those who enjoy a more complex, aged spirit, we also offer Dark Fire, our oak-aged version of Dappa, which develops rich flavours over time.
What is Eau de Vie?
This is a French term that translates to “water of life,” referring to a range of clear fruit brandies distilled from fermented fruit. Unlike grappa, which is made from grape pomace, it is typically made from a variety of fruits, including apples, pears, plums, and cherries. It’s a spirit with deep cultural roots in many parts of Europe, particularly in regions like Alsace and Normandy.
The most famous of these includes spirits such as Poire Williams (made from pears) and Kirsch (made from cherries). This fruit brandy is usually un-aged and known for its clean, fresh flavour, which captures the pure essence of the fruit.
Technical Differences Between Grappa and Eau de Vie
- Base Ingredients:
- Grappa (and Dappa) is made from grape pomace, the leftover skins, seeds, and stems after winemaking.
- Eau de vie is made from whole, fermented fruit, such as apples, pears, cherries, or plums.
- Production Process:
- Grappa and Dappa are distilled from pomace using steam distillation, which preserves the fruity, complex characteristics of the grapes.
- Eau de vie is distilled from fermented fruit, often in a pot still, to capture the pure essence of the fruit without aging or altering its flavours.
- Flavour Profile:
- Grappa and Dappa carry a fuller body with more pronounced fruit and spice notes from the grape pomace, with variations depending on the grape varieties used.
- Eau de vie is typically light, fresh, and aromatic, showcasing the flavours of the fruit it is made from, with no additional ageing or barrel influence.
Flavour Differences Between Grappa, Eau de Vie, and Dappa
The flavour profiles of grappa, eau de vie, and Dappa are influenced by the ingredients and methods used to create them.
- Grappa is known for its fruity and aromatic qualities, with notes of apple, pear, and citrus when made from white grape pomace. When made from red grapes, like Dappa, it takes on deeper notes of berry, dark fruit, and spice.
- Eau de vie tends to be more delicate and light, offering a clean, fresh taste of the fruit from which it’s distilled. For example, a pear-based spirit like Poire Williams will deliver a bright, crisp pear flavour, while a cherry-based one like Kirsch will have a bold, fruity profile with a slight almond note.
- Dappa offers a rich, smooth flavour with notes of dark berries, spice, and a subtle complexity that comes from the grape skins used in its production. For those who enjoy a more robust spirit, Dark Fire—our aged version of Dappa—adds layers of vanilla, oak, and caramel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more mature spirit.
Sustainability and Craftsmanship: Upcycling Grape Pomace in Grappa and Dappa
One of the key distinctions between grappa (and Dappa) and other fruit brandies is the emphasis on sustainability. Grappa and Dappa are made from the leftover grape pomace, ensuring that no part of the winemaking process goes to waste. This practice of upcycling grape skins, seeds, and stems is not only eco-friendly but also produces a high-quality spirit with unique flavour characteristics.
On the other hand, fruit brandy is made from whole fruit, which means it focuses more on capturing the fresh essence of the fruit in liquid form rather than using by-products.
A Call to Try Dappa and Dark Fire: Alternatives to Eau de Vie
While eau de vie remains a popular choice for those seeking light, fresh fruit flavours, Dappa and Dark Fire offer a bolder, more complex alternative for those who enjoy fruit-based spirits with depth. Whether you’re drawn to the rich, fruity notes of Dappa or the warm, aged flavours of Dark Fire, both spirits provide an exciting alternative to traditional fruit brandy.
For those who enjoy the clean, fresh flavours of eau de vie, Dappa provides a smooth, fruity flavour with added complexity, while Dark Fire offers a richer, more nuanced experience that is perfect for sipping neat or as a digestif.
Conclusion: Grappa, Eau de Vie, and Dappa—Exploring the World of Fruit Spirits
Whether you prefer the fresh, delicate flavours of eau de vie or the bold, fruity complexity of grappa and Dappa, each spirit offers a unique way to experience the essence of fruit. While fruit brandy highlights the pure, un-aged flavours of fruits like pears and cherries, Dappa and Dark Fire provide a more robust and full-bodied interpretation of grape-based spirits.
For those looking to explore something new, Dappa and Dark Fire offer a British take on grappa that rivals the finest eau de vie. With their rich flavours and smooth finishes, they are the perfect alternative to traditional fruit spirits and a celebration of sustainable distillation.
