🥃 Génépi

Génépi (French génépi, Italian genepì) is the name used in the Alps both for several low-growing high-mountain wormwood species of the genus Artemisia and for the sweet, bitter herbal liqueur made from them. Regulation (EU) 2019/787 lists génépi (Artemisia genepi) among the plant liqueurs that may be flavoured only with natural flavouring substances, and the liqueur category requires at least 15% vol.

The plant. According to the specification of the protected name Génépi des Alpes, four wormwood species are traditionally grouped under the name: Artemisia mutellina (umbelliformis, white génépi), Artemisia spicata (black génépi), Artemisia glacialis and Artemisia nivalis. They grow wild in rock crevices, glacial moraines and scree above 2000 m, where the growing season lasts only 3–4 months. The plant is now also cultivated; for Génépi des Alpes, picking and cultivation must take place above 1500 m.

Production. Under the Génépi des Alpes specification the aromas are extracted by macerating the plants in an alcohol solution (at least 20 days for dried and 15 days for fresh plants), by suspending them over a water-alcohol solution (at least 90 days), or by distilling macerated plants. Ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin is used; sugar, water and neutral alcohol are added, and no artificial colourings or flavourings. At least 2 g of dried flowering tops go into a litre. Other plants such as angelica, juniper, mint or thyme may be added. The liqueur is colourless or pale yellow to light green and at least 30% vol.

History and protection. According to the specification, people in the Alpine valleys used génépi as a medicinal plant from the Middle Ages, a liqueur craft developed in the Alps from the 18th century, and génépi liqueur spread from the mid-19th century and grew with winter-sports tourism from the 1960s. The EU register holds three protected names: Génépi des Alpes (France and Italy, a cross-border indication recognised in France in 2014), Genepì del Piemonte and Genepì della Valle d'Aosta.

Why this matters to you. Génépi is a sweet liqueur, so its strength is easy to underestimate. The WHO reminds us that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.