Grand Cru de Batz gros sel gris Jar

Salt has been harvested in the windswept tidal marshes of Guérande for more than a millennium. Grand Cru de Batz are the upholders of this proud Breton tradition – producing a unique range of small-batch, hand-harvested salts in much the same way as would have been done 1,000 years ago.

The salt is naturally created from the sea water that becomes trapped in the patchwork of interconnected salt pans that dot the marshes. The warm summer winds cause the water to evaporate, leaving its salt crystals behind.

Unlike fleur de sel, which forms on the top of the water, gros sel gris comes into contact with the argile – the mineral-rich clay at bottom of the salt pan. It is this that gives it its grey tinge as well as its high magnesium content.

The salt is carefully removed by a paludier (or salt-marsh worker) using his las, a specially designed rake with a 5-metre blade. This precious harvest is naturally dried to preserve its high mineral content, before being hand-sorted to remove impurities. 

Finally, it’s sealed in an airtight tin to protect it unique fragrance, before finding its way to the best restaurant kitchens in France – and, now, to you.

How to use

• Gros Sel Gris is a great way to add the finishing touch to many dishes. Try it on grilled fish and meats and over salads.
• It's good, too, used in brining or salting meat or fish.
• Add to the pot when boiling vegetable, such as potatoes or broccoli, for some amazing flavour.

Details Available in two sizes: 100g and 850g.

Don’t forget to check out our other Grand Cru de Batz salts: Fleur de Sel Vent d’Est; Fleur de Sel Fumée; and fellow Great Taste 2018 Award Winner Fleur de Sel.