From 1 to 31 May, the 16th edition of French GourMay, under the umbrella of French May Arts Festival, supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, unveils the diversity and versatility of spirits in French gastronomic culture.”
From the historic vineyards of Cognac to the alpine slopes of the French Alps, France’s diverse landscapes have given rise to an extraordinary variety of spirits. Whether sipped neat, mixed into cocktails, or used in cooking, these French drinks offer a taste of centuries-old craftsmanship and tradition—ready to be discovered this May in Hong Kong.
Apéritif: the French Happy Hour
The apéritif is a pre-dinner ritual that is not just about the drinks; it’s a chance to gather with friends, unwind, and prepare for the meal ahead. In France, apéritif choices vary by region—for example, Pastis is a favourite in the south. During French GourMay, bars will showcase creative cocktails using Cognac, rum from Martinique and Guadeloupe.
Cooking with alcohol: a long French tradition
Peek inside a traditional French cookbook, and you’re likely to find more recipes with a splash of alcohol than without. From seasoning terrines and pâtés to enriching slow-cooked stews and hearty casseroles, or flambéing desserts, spirits like Armagnac provide dishes with a substantive depth of flavour.
Ending a great meal with a digestif
But the French know that how you finish a meal is just as important as how you start it. That’s where the digestif comes in. These small yet serious after-dinner drinks help to settle the stomach and mark the perfect end to a great meal. Common digestifs often include fortified wines, brandies like Cognac, or various liquors like Chartreuse.
During the whole May, over 150 French GourMay partners in Hong Kong and Macau will feature limited-time menus infused with French spirits, and hands-on workshops will demonstrate deglazing, marinating and flambé techniques. And a special bar- hopping program, in partnership with Whisky Magazine, will send participants to signature venues across Hong Kong, collecting stamps for exclusive gifts.
