Matchbook Distilling Co. Maillard Liqueur (60 proof)

Item Number: 22205

UPC: None

Country: USA
Region: New York
Sub Region: Long Island
Estate Grown Wine: No
Grape(s): Maine Oats Mash / Browned Butter / Brown Sugar
Type: Spirits - Liqueur & Amaro
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 6
Closure: T Top
Alc by Vol(%): 30

Maillard Liqueur captures the culinary magic of the Maillard reaction in a bottle. This liqueur was created with the help of the Culinary Institute of America, NY and is a limited release of exceptional quality.

The Short Version: Spirit distilled from 100% organic ME oats infused with browned NY butter, roasted oats and brown sugar.

The Long Version: A collaboration between Matchbook Distilling Co. and the Culinary Institute of America, Maillard is a one-of-a-kind liqueur inspired by the complex, comforting flavors created by the Maillard reaction. The Maillard reaction is a chemical process occurring when amino acids and reducing sugars in food react under heat, creating complex flavors and aromas. The Maillard reaction is responsible for the golden crust on bread, the richness of roasted coffee, and the nutty aroma of browned butter, to name a few.

The idea took shape around granola, where oats and butter undergo this reaction to achieve a caramelized, toasted depth. To bring this flavor to life, the CIA chef educators meticulously browned 400 lbs. of butter, which was an incredibly labor-intensive process requiring hours of careful heat management to evaporate water and concentrate flavor. At the distillery, organic Maine oats were fermented into a mash, then distilled and after fat-washed with the browned butter. Roasted oats and a touch of brown sugar were added to deepen the flavor profile. The result is a richly textured, aromatic liqueur with notes of toasted granola, browned butter, and baking spice.

Maillard is a tribute to the chemistry of cooking and the artistry of distillation. Extremely limited production—only a few hundred bottles made.