Espresso and alcohol have lengthy been acquainted companions, discovered facet by facet in the whole lot from the basic espresso martini to after-dinner liqueurs that heat the palate. Nocturne Noir takes this relationship to a brand new stage, distilling the essence of every with exceptional craft. Nocturne Noir shouldn’t be your common espresso liqueur. This refined espresso spirit is made with out sugar, components or shortcuts — simply pure Eau de Vie aged with single-origin Colombian Arabica beans. The Eau de Vie consists of barley, wheat and rye, which have been distilled 5 occasions in a copper nonetheless and triple filtered with basalt lava rocks and quartz sand to take away any impurities. On this unique interview, LUXUO speaks to Jason Ong about redefining what a espresso spirit may be, constructing a refined ritual round flavour and the place he hopes to take this award-winning label subsequent.
Inform us concerning the origins of Nocturne Noir.
Nocturne Noir was born from the founders’ love of each espresso and whisky, with the primary formulation courting again to 2012. Most coffee-based alcohols available on the market are liqueurs — sometimes sweetened and full of colourings, flavourings, and components. Whereas some are gratifying, few are crafted to be savoured neat as a major drink for the night. Nocturne Noir was created to vary that — a pure, refined espresso spirit with no added sugar or synthetic substances. After six years of improvement and refinement, it launched in 2019 and has since gone on to win a number of worldwide awards.
What’s the Eau de Vie composed of and what are its dominant tasting notes?
Our Eau de Vie is distilled 5 occasions and triple-filtered, made out of a mix of barley, wheat and rye. This course of provides it distinctive smoothness and a wealthy, satisfying mouthfeel. On the palate, you’ll discover notes of toffee, amaretto, hazelnut and almond, with a delicate creaminess — though it’s fully pure and dairy-free.
Why the emphasis on utilizing solely Colombian espresso beans?
We use solely the best Arabica espresso beans from Colombia as a result of its splendid local weather and geography produce a few of the world’s finest espresso. Arabica beans provide a extra delicate and sophisticated flavour profile, decrease caffeine content material and a pure concord with our Eau de Vie — making it the right match for Nocturne Noir.
How do you suggest individuals take pleasure in Nocturne Noir?
We recommend serving Nocturne Noir chilled neat at round 5°C or over ice. It’s extremely versatile and pairs fantastically with cuisines corresponding to Japanese, Italian, French and Cantonese.
Espresso spirits are comparatively new in Southeast Asia. Are Singaporeans open to attempting new cocktails?
Completely. Cocktail tradition is gaining sturdy momentum in Southeast Asia, particularly in Singapore. To showcase Nocturne Noir’s versatility, famend mixologist Din Hassan created 5 signature cocktails — all of that are straightforward to copy at residence. The recipes can be found on our web site.
Are you able to identify some cocktail bars in Singapore that serve Nocturne Noir?
Sure, a number of esteemed venues in Singapore provide Nocturne Noir, together with Capasso, Ole Bar, Smoke & Mirrors, LVLR Rooftop Bar, The Hidden Story and Hermitage.
How do you guarantee constant high quality at Nocturne Noir?
High quality is non-negotiable. Each ingredient is rigorously chosen and should meet our exacting requirements earlier than it’s accredited. The manufacturing course of is tightly managed, and we conduct rigorous style assessments on each batch to make sure it meets our flavour profile earlier than bottling. This dedication to high quality is mirrored in our constant success at worldwide spirits competitions.
Inform us about your sustainability efforts.
Sustainability is essential to us. All of our packaging is recyclable. Our uniquely designed bottles are sometimes repurposed by prospects as décor gadgets or flower vases, serving to to cut back waste and prolong their use.
The place do you see Nocturne Noir in 5 years? What are the important thing milestones forward?
In 5 years, I envision Nocturne Noir accessible on each continent — changing into the go-to identify when individuals consider espresso spirits. We’re working towards increasing distribution globally whereas sustaining the standard and ethos of our model.
If there’s one final factor you’d like individuals to learn about Nocturne Noir, what would it not be?
Nocturne Noir is a espresso spirit not like another — pure, elegant and free from added sugar, colouring, or flavourings. It’s made to be appreciated in its pure type.
Are you able to share your favorite number of espresso?
My all-time favorite is Esmeralda Geisha for its vibrant and sophisticated flavour profile, although it’s not generally present in Singapore. San Alberto from Colombia is my regular go-to and extra extensively accessible.
In case you might identify a mentor or supply of inspiration in your profession, who would it not be?
Whereas I’ve by no means had a private mentor, I’ve discovered nice inspiration within the work and philosophy of two people: Napoleon Hill and Li Ka-shing. Their insights on mindset, technique, and resilience have deeply influenced my strategy to each life and enterprise.
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