#Meetourmembers: Emile Chaillot - Grey Goose
Meet Emile Chaillot, Grey Goose North America Brand Ambassador!
Emile’s journey in the spirits industry
Born and raised in Paris, Emile’s early life was steeped in the spirit industry, thanks to his parents who managed their restaurants in Paris. His fascination with the industry began at a young age, and by 16, he started his apprenticeship. Initially, working on the restaurant floor, he quickly transitioned to the bar, drawn by the creativity it offers.
Emile’s first encounter with spirits is a common French experience, rooted in family gatherings. His first drink was cider from Calvados, a very low-alcohol beverage that began shaping Emile’s palet. This early experience paved the way for his later appreciation of white spirits, in particular vodka, which he likes for its subtlety, versatility, and unique nuances.
Emile began his career at Grey Goose Vodka in the heart of Cognac, where he served as the Brand Home brand ambassador. In this role, he immersed clients, customers, bartenders, and the press in the Grey Goose experience.
Emile’s career has been marked by international experiences. After several years in France, organizing events for various brands, he expanded his horizons to New York, Australia, and Asia. Seven years ago, he settled in Chicago, a strategic location for his role as Grey Goose Brand Ambassador for North America. He travels to several cities, sharing his expertise and passion for Grey Goose with diverse audiences across the continent.
Emile’s role and passion for Grey Goose
Emile takes great pride in representing Grey Goose in North America, a brand that embodies French culture and values. This role allows him to connect deeply with his roots while promoting a product he genuinely believes in.
One of the highlights of Emile’s role is the opportunity to travel to various cities and meet a diverse array of people. He enjoys mentoring and coaching others, sharing his extensive experience, and spreading his passion for Grey Goose through educational initiatives and cocktail creations. Seeing these efforts come to life and resonate with people is incredibly rewarding for him.
Leading tasting experiences is another aspect Emile deeply enjoys. He likes guiding participants to discover and appreciate the subtle nuances of Grey Goose Vodka, transforming their perception of vodka from a tasteless spirit to one rich with flavor.
He particularly enjoys taking people through the rich history of Grey Goose, sharing the brand’s story, and explaining the crafting process. This storytelling not only enhances the tasting experience but also fosters a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Seeing the ‘liquid to lips’ moment—when participants truly understand and savor the unique qualities of Grey Goose—is a highlight for Emile. It’s this connection and the ability to educate and inspire others that makes offering tasting experiences so fulfilling for him.
Memorable events with Grey Goose
Emile’s journey as a Grey Goose Brand Ambassador has been filled with unique and memorable events. One of the most impactful experiences was being mentored by François Thibault, the creator of the Grey Goose recipe. This mentorship profoundly shaped Emile’s understanding of vodka, offering him a new perspective and deeper appreciation for the spirit.
A standout event in Emile’s career was the partnership between Grey Goose and the Recording Academy, which allowed him to attend the Grammy Awards. This prestigious event featured the signature cocktail, the Passion Drop, created by the Grey Goose ambassador based in Los Angeles. The cocktail was showcased in several bars and at various events throughout the city, highlighting Grey Goose’s commitment to luxury and excellence.
Throughout the years, Grey Goose has been involved in numerous high-profile and well-organized events underscoring the brand’s prestige.
Focus on the uniqueness of Grey Goose Vodka - A leader in the Super-Premium category
Grey Goose vodka is a premium French vodka crafted from the best of the natural world, the finest quality soft winter wheat from Picardie and purest limestone-filtered spring water from Gensac-la-Pallue - with no additives, ever. Established in 1997 by Sidney Frank and Founding Cellar Master François Thibault, Grey Goose pioneered the luxury vodka segment and has remained a leader in the super-premium category for over 25 years.
The exceptional quality of Grey Goose is attributed to its ingredients and the expertise of farmers who have cultivated the wheat for generations. This dedication to quality results in a vodka known for its smooth, well-rounded character, with natural richness and aromatic notes of almond and vanilla, that add sophistication to any cocktail.
Grey Goose’s commitment to excellence enhances the flavor profile of any cocktail, making it the #1 vodka recommended by bartenders and a staple on back bars worldwide. In 2024, it was ranked the best-selling and most trendy vodka by “International Drinks” publication, a testament to the brand’s enduring success.
Upcoming trends in the spirits industry
Currently, trend really goes towards premiumisation, where luxury servings, like vodka paired with caviar or oyster, are becoming popular. Consumers now appreciate vodka for its taste, not just its effects.
Grey Goose is leading these trends with the launch of Grey Goose Altius, made from the same high-quality soft winter wheat, blended with glacial water from the Alps.
Additionally, classic cocktails are making a comeback, with martinis and espresso martinis gaining popularity.
Vodka’s versatility appeals to all generations, with options ranging from vodka tonics to cosmopolitans and spritz-style cocktails. The possibilities for creating unique drinks are endless.
Discover Emile’s favorite cocktail
Emile’s favorite cocktail is a Vodka Martini with a twist. He prefers it sturdy, not shaken, ensuring the spirit is perfectly chilled and not overdiluted. This method brings out all the nuanced flavors of the Grey Goose vodka. Garnished with a zesty lemon twist, it’s a sophisticated choice that skips the olive and blue cheese, letting the pure essence of the drink shine through.
Try it and experience the elegance of a true Vodka Martini, just as Emile enjoys it!
Recipe 5 to 1:
5 parts (2.5 ounces) of GREY GOOSE Vodka
1 part (0.5 ounce) of Noilly Prat Dry vermouth
2 dashes of orange stirred and strained into a cocktail glass, in a cocktail coupe
Garnish with lemon zest on the top of the glass
Meet Emile and taste Grey Goose cocktail at Passport to France 2024, on November 21st!
Thank you Emile for your time, insights and commitment!
