Espresso and alcohol have lengthy been acquainted companions, discovered facet by facet in every part from the traditional 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 outstanding craft. Nocturne Noir isn’t 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 in regards to the origins of Nocturne Noir.
Nocturne Noir was born from the founders’ love of each espresso and whisky, with the primary formulation relationship again to 2012. Most coffee-based alcohols in the marketplace are liqueurs — sometimes sweetened and stuffed with 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 alter that — a pure, refined espresso spirit with no added sugar or synthetic components. After six years of growth 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, comprised of a mix of barley, wheat and rye. This course of offers 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 — despite the fact that it’s totally 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 superb local weather and geography produce a few of the world’s finest espresso. Arabica beans provide a extra delicate and complicated flavour profile, decrease caffeine content material and a pure concord with our Eau de Vie — making it the proper match for Nocturne Noir.
How do you suggest folks get pleasure from Nocturne Noir?
We propose serving Nocturne Noir chilled neat at round 5°C or over ice. It’s extremely versatile and pairs superbly with cuisines equivalent to Japanese, Italian, French and Cantonese.
Espresso spirits are comparatively new in Southeast Asia. Are Singaporeans open to making an attempt new cocktails?
Completely. Cocktail tradition is gaining robust 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 house. 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 permitted. 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 necessary to us. All of our packaging is recyclable. Our uniquely designed bottles are sometimes repurposed by prospects as décor objects 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 out there on each continent — turning into the go-to identify when folks 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 folks to learn about Nocturne Noir, what would it not be?
Nocturne Noir is a espresso spirit in contrast to every other — pure, elegant and free from added sugar, colouring, or flavourings. It’s made to be appreciated in its pure kind.
Are you able to share your favorite number of espresso?
My all-time favorite is Esmeralda Geisha for its vibrant and complicated flavour profile, although it’s not generally present in Singapore. San Alberto from Colombia is my regular go-to and extra extensively out there.
In the event 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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