On the test bench: Les Charlatans, artisanal syrups

This series of articles is written in collaboration with UQTR students participating in the Export Trade Mission to Europe .

Les Charlatans has been specializing in making syrups, tonics, shrubs and artisanal sauces since 2012. The ingredients that make up their products are carefully selected, with particular attention paid to organic ingredients. The syrups are made from organic and fair trade cane sugar and Quebec spring water.

The company has facilities that allow it to handcraft each juice and infusion. No concentrates, artificial flavors, essential oils, colorings or preservatives are used in Les Charlatans products. The products are rich in flavor thanks to a researched manufacturing process adapted to each recipe. In addition, the same product can be used in different contexts, whether to enhance recipes or foods, as a vinaigrette or to incorporate into cocktails. One of the objectives of the Charlatans is to awaken the creativity of consumers, in addition to developing their interest in local and artisanal products, as well as in homemade cocktails.

A first on European soil

Through the trade mission, Les Charlatans hope to be able to identify the opportunities that are present on the European market and validate the feasibility of an export project.

To do this, they are curious to know which products are likely to be in demand on French and Belgian soil.

The company also wants to be able to compare two options available to it:

1. Export from Quebec products that demonstrate the greatest potential in Europe.
2. Evaluate the option of designing syrups on European soil in order to minimize transport costs.

Our favorites

During our visit to the Charlatans office, we had the chance to taste their range of products. To make your selection easier, here are our favorite products:

Vegan Worcester Sauce

The vegan Worcester sauce is concocted from organic ingredients, including Kombu Royal from Varech Phare Est de la Haute Gaspésie. It will satisfy all fans of bloody caesar , but also surprise when added to rice or to enhance a sauce. Definitely a huge favorite!

Coffee and cardamom syrup

The coffee and cardamom syrup is made from roasted Brazilian coffee beans right here in Montreal. You will be surprised to learn that it can be used as much in alcoholic coffees, in an espresso Martini and even on ice cream or on a pancake! We only tested it in a café and were amazed! We are already looking forward to the next brunch to try it on pancakes!

Lime and pepper syrup

Our humble opinion: Yummy! The lime and pepper syrup has a slightly tangy and tangy taste that is perfectly balanced. It does not taste too sweet. Personally, we've tried it two ways: in a Margarita and in flavored sparkling water. Although delicious added to a drink, it can also be added to your ice cream, but also used in cooking or baking.

Les Charlatans products have become essential in our kitchens and I hope they will be in yours too!

Les Charlatans products are available on the Signé Local online store .

 

Keep an eye on our next publications since we will detail you throughout our internship our discoveries as well as our adventures! See you soon!

by Marie-Pier Richer

Reviewed by MF Editorial

Félix-Antoine Chavanelle, Jade Maillé, Cynthia Southière and Marie-Pier Richer

Who are we and what is our project?

We are a team of four graduating students with a bachelor's degree in business administration (BAA), marketing profile at UQTR. To conclude our school career, we take part in an end-of-study internship called Export Trade Mission .

What is a trade mission? This is a process that we are undertaking in order to export products to a new country. We study the markets, the competition, the opportunities as well as the threats. Throughout our internship, we will come into contact with stakeholders likely to support the export process.

Our approach begins with analytical work, in collaboration with local businesses. The approach will continue with a trip to Paris and Brussels to meet the contacts and thus validate our research. The internship will end with a presentation of our results to the partner companies as well as to our professors.

Throughout our journey, we will share with you some publications that will allow you to follow our evolution, but also to know the companies for which we carry out the commercial mission.