Combier

Combier is a family-owned French distillery in Saumur, Loire Valley, founded in 1834 — credited with producing the world’s first triple sec liqueur. The flagship Combier Triple Sec uses whole dried Seville orange peel, no artificial colors, and minimal sugar, producing a genuinely authentic orange liqueur that most mainstream triple sec brands no longer match. The Crème de Cassis uses fresh Burgundy blackcurrants for an equally authentic French liqueur tradition.

Both expressions are essential cocktail ingredients: the Triple Sec is the definitive choice for Margaritas, Sidecars, and Cosmopolitans where authentic orange flavor matters; the Crème de Cassis is the essential base for Kir and Kir Royale. Both can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks as digestifs.

The Combier Lineup

Combier Triple Sec — Whole dried Seville orange peel macerated in neutral spirit, no artificial colors, minimal sugar. Clean, bright, and intensely aromatic. The authentic alternative to Cointreau for Margaritas, Sidecars, and Cosmopolitans. Combier Crème de Cassis — Fresh Burgundy blackcurrants producing a rich, fruit-forward liqueur with balanced sweetness and vivid tart character. Essential for Kir and Kir Royale. Combier Liqueur d’Orange — The premium expression — aged in oak for additional complexity beyond the standard Triple Sec.

Browse all liqueurs and mixers and bitters at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Combier Triple Sec the same as Cointreau?

Both are French orange liqueurs made from Seville orange peel, but Combier is the original — the brand claims to have produced the world’s first triple sec in 1834, predating Cointreau’s 1875 founding. The flavor profiles are similar; Combier tends to be slightly more aromatic and less sweet. Either works in a Margarita or Sidecar; choice often comes down to personal preference and price point.

What cocktails use Crème de Cassis?

Kir — Crème de Cassis with white Burgundy wine — is the classic. Kir Royale substitutes Champagne. The El Diablo (tequila, lime, ginger beer, cassis) is a modern favorite. Cassis also works in spritz cocktails, whisky sours with a blackcurrant twist, and as a float over sparkling wine.