A highly anticipated final, under the banner of True Flavour

Pauline Desurmont, Maxime Deymier, Charles Jonville, Nicolas Margeot-Porcheron, Jérémie Pasqualin, Maxence Piattelli, Nahui Sánchez and Emilien Way: These eight finalists, chosen over the past few months by Marie Cabaret, Mathieu Teisseire’s ambassador in France, had all been eagerly awaiting the national final of this very first edition of the Flavour Masters!

On Monday, seven of them* met at the brand’s Parisian studio to face three challenges that would decide who would represent France at the international final next October.

3 challenges for one spot

They had to take on three rounds, enhanced by fascinating masterclasses on syrup making, Mathieu Teisseire’s expertise, and the influence of color on how we perceive taste—a truly captivating topic.

Then it was time for action: the first challenge, Behind True Flavour, invited participants to reproduce a cherry syrup by combining different essences, including cherry blossoms of course, but also almond and vanilla.

After this initial sensory awakening, the finalists had to present a True Flavour Elevation, creating a cocktail that showcased their freshly made syrup, or, as Maxence Piattelli called it, ‘à peu près sirop’ (which roughly translates to ‘about syrup’).

For instance, he chose cold brew coffee (among other ingredients) to elevate his version, while Jérémie Pasqualin (Les Coursives, Mulhouse) showcased his passion for Mexican flavors by pairing his syrup with mezcal’s smoky notes.

Finally, the last round, Flavour & Emotion, required them to create and present a recipe inspired by an emotion and a color. Nicolas Margeot-Porcheron (Caribou, Marseille) expressed his Optimism with a bright composition (honey and yuzu) accompanied by “Petit Jaune” from his region, while Maxime Deymier (El Gaudi, Grenoble) immersed us in comfort and warmth (cinnamon) with his Chesterfield. Charles Jonville (La Rochelle) got us into a green mood (especially apples), Emilien Way explored Strength, and Pauline Desurmont showcased pink (and roses) in her own way.

Maxence Piattelli, first-ever French winner

After this intense day and long, meticulous deliberations, the jury composed of Marie Cabaret, Leïla Notturno (R&D expert at Mathieu Teisseire) and Mickaël Guidot (aka ForGeorges) finally named Maxence Piattelli (Requin Cocktails, La Rochelle) as the big winner of this national final!

Thanks to his creativity (for instance, in the final round he used watermelon syrup paired with homemade fennel extract and grapefruit soda), his boldness, and his presentation skills, he will now have the honor of representing France at the major international final next October!

We can’t wait!

* Unfortunately, Nahui Sánchez from Apotek bar in Marseille could not attend, as her flight was canceled.