Florita Chadeque is a Haitian bitter and aperitif from Florita by Velier, built around citrus grandis, a Haitian grapefruit variety that serves as the product’s signature ingredient. It is bottled at 42.3% ABV in a 350 ml format and is made from sugarcane alcohol together with citrus, bark, woods, roots, spices, and other natural Haitian botanicals. The production is based on maceration, resulting in a bitter with intense citrus character, aromatic depth, and a clearly herbal bitterness.
As for the producer, Florita is part of the Velier universe and grew out of Velier’s long-standing work and interest in Haiti. The project was inspired by the country’s strong tradition of using local spices, citrus fruits, and botanical ingredients in both food and drinks. The Florita range is intended as a tribute to Haitian flavour, culture, and craftsmanship, which is why it feels more locally rooted and more distinctive than many classic European bitters.
On the palate, Florita Chadeque is strongly citrus-led, with notes of grapefruit, lemon, and bergamot, supported by bitter citrus peel and a fresh herbal bitterness. The overall impression is lively, aromatic, and slightly exotic, with a style that feels both refreshing and complex. It stands apart from more traditional red bitters by focusing more on citrus and less on sweetness and warm spice.
It therefore works very well over ice, as an aperitif or digestif, and in cocktails where you want pronounced grapefruit bitterness, freshness, and Caribbean character. For anyone looking for a bitter with plenty of citrus, clear bitterness, and a more unusual origin, Florita Chadeque is both a distinctive and highly useful bottling.
