Cedratine – Tunisian liqueur made from unusual citrus fruits

Sedratin (tsedratin, Cedratine) – Tunisian citrus liqueur with a strength of 35-40% vol. Since Tunisia was a colony of France, the drink came to Europe, where the inhabitants of Corsica liked it the most, who established production on their island. The fortress of the French version is 30-35% vol. A popular version is that the name of the liquor is related to the English word cedar (cedar) is erroneous. In fact, Cédratine means “zest”, otherwise – “citron”, a sweet citrus fruit.

Russian-speaking tourists often confuse Tunisian liqueurs Sedratin and Tibarin. Bartenders also contribute to the confusion, sometimes replacing one drink with another (if the required one runs out, and there is no time or nowhere to buy a new one), claiming that these are analogues. In fact, these liqueurs are very different.

Differences between Sedratin and Tibarin

In addition, Sedarin is almost two times cheaper, especially in Duty Free stores.

History

Citrus peel tincture is a traditional drink for regions rich in such fruits. However, commercial production of Cedratine from French citrons imported from Asia in the early 1872th century began in XNUMX on the island of Corsica.

The company, named after its founder Mattei, produces citrus liqueurs to this day.

In Tunisia, Felix Habib & Co. is responsible for the production of the citron-based drink.

Taste

Tasters describe Sedratine as “sweet and savory” with citrus and juniper profiles being the strongest in the aroma.

It is believed that the French version from Mattei is better than the Tunisian, has a more refined taste and complex aroma. Therefore, European Sedratine is better to drink in its pure form, and African is great for cocktails.

Technology of preparation

The raw material for the production of the drink are sweet citrus fruits – citrons. Their peel is macerated (infused) in wine alcohol, then sugar syrup and other herbs are added to the finished tincture.

Cedrat (citron) is a citrus fruit weighing up to 4 kg with a thick skin and fragrant, but almost inedible pulp. In its pure form, it is not eaten, the fruit is valuable for its zest.

On the packaging of Tunisian Sedratine, the following is written: “Made according to the old secret recipes of the Carthaginian monks, this liqueur is the result of fermentation and distillation of natural ingredients and exotic fruits. Thanks to a long exposure, the drink acquires an exquisite taste and bouquet.

The French manufacturer writes that its product is “an assembly of distillates of fragrant fruits and a double distillate of the best Corsican citrons, made according to the original recipe of Louis Napoléon Mathieu.”

How to drink Sedratin

Sedratine is drunk in its pure form as a digestif (after a meal) or as part of cocktails. Liquor can be cooled by adding ice to it, but many drinkers prefer to leave the drink at room temperature.

In Tunisia, Sedratin is considered to be a female spirit (especially in comparison with Tibarin, which is more “promoted” and “sharpened” for export and souvenir gifts), however, the high strength translates Sedratin into the category, if not the ultimate masculine, then at least universal drinks.

Sedratin is included in the standard range of Tunisian bars, it is offered in hotels to tourists on an all-inclusive basis.

Many travelers note that the sweet citrus tincture is much more pleasant than the local fig vodka – bukhi, has an interesting taste and does not cause such negative consequences in the morning as other local alcoholic drinks.

Cocktails with Sedratine

In Tunisian hotels, Sedratine is often simply mixed with cola, added to coffee or diluted with juice. But there are more sophisticated combinations:

1. sweet nights. Pour equal parts of Sedratin, lemon (or orange) and pineapple juices, a little mint syrup (to taste) into a glass. Stir, add ice, decorate the glass with an orange slice.
2. Strong citrus. In a glass of Sedratine, add crushed mint leaves, ice, an orange slice and a cocktail cherry. Drink through a straw.
3. Bananamania. Mix in a shaker 100 ml of Sedratine and white rum, 20 ml of lemon juice, puree from one banana. Pour into a glass, add 100 ml of champagne, stir.
4. Travel south. Sedratine with white sparkling wine (preferably brut), proportions to taste.
5. Mirabel. Mix equal parts Sedratine, gin, pink vermouth and orange juice in a shaker, pour into a glass filled with ice, top up with champagne to taste.