Bordier Espelette Pepper Butter

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Upon the tableau of culinary excellence, the Bordier Espelette Pepper Butter stands as a testament to the artisanal prowess of French butter-making. Its flavor is anchored in the creamy richness bestowed by fresh, pasteurized cow’s cream originating from the lush pastures of Brittany. The mild spiciness that punctuates each bite speaks of the subtle influence of piment d’Espelette sourced from the Basque Country with its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. A narrative of contrasts unfolds across the palate: the sleek smoothness of the butter’s texture is enriched with flecks of pepper, adding a textural intrigue that is simultaneously visual and gustatory. With each spread, the taste journey ventures from savory complexity to a balanced acidity, where the inherent sweetness of the cream emerges then retreats into the smoky depths of carefully sun-dried Espelette peppers. In this butter, one finds not just an ingredient but a culinary protagonist, capable of both asserting and yielding in the dance of flavors. Its unicity is held within its ability to conjure the confluence of Brittany and Basque Country, two regions that are distinct yet symbiotically represented in each pat.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Grilled Steaks: The creamy butter melts into the succulent fibers of a ribeye or sirloin, infusing the meat with its smoky piquancy.
• Crusty Artisan Breads: Slathered upon a warm baguette, the butter imparts a gourmet twist on a simple pleasure.
• Vegetable Sides: Transform steamed or roasted vegetables into a side dish of distinction with a dollop of this butter.
• Eggs: Whether scrambled or in an omelette, the butter brings a smoky undertone to the morning routine.

  Butter Bearing Tales

In the culinary shores of gastronomy, Bordier asserts its heritage and artisanship with head held high. The convergence of two distinct regions—Brittany and Basque Country—within its Beurre Bordier Plaquette au piment d’Espelette reflects a storied relationship between the land and its produce. Each slab of butter carries with it the whispers of the Atlantic breeze and the Basque sun’s embrace. Traditional methods, hand-harvested peppers adorned celebratorily in homes, and an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) distinction combine to not just tempt the palate but also evoke the narratives of French culinary tradition and innovation. At the dinner table, this butter serves not only as a complement to the dish but also as a conversational centerpiece, invoking stories of its crafting lineage back to 1927 and its present-day craftsmanship led by Jean-Yves Bordier.

Storage Instructions

To preserve the Bordier Espelette Pepper Butter’s textural integrity and fulsome flavor, store it refrigerated between +2°C to +6°C. Once the packaging is opened, it is prudent to transfer the butter to an airtight container or wrap it securely in aluminum foil to prevent oxidation. Consume within one week of opening to experience the product at the zenith of its freshness and culinary potency.