This is the one that is actually in French houses. Not on the table at a restaurant — in the garage, in a crate, in the fridge door. It is classed as spring water rather than mineral water and it is the cheapest thing on the shelf, and it is still what the country drinks. Nobody is romantic about Cristaline. That is the compliment.
MyFrenchHusband Approved · Boissons
Is Cristaline actually French?
Approuvé
The Record
| Category | Eau de source (spring water) |
|---|---|
| Source | More than twenty regional springs, named per bottle |
| Owner | Sources Alma (France) |
| Bottled | At each source |
| Mineral content | Varies by spring — which is why it is not classed as mineral water |
The Three Questions
- 1. Is the company French?
- Yes. Sources Alma, a French company. The brand was created in 1992.
- 2. Is the thing in the packet made in France?
- Yes. Every bottle is drawn and filled in France, and the label names which spring.
- 3. Do French people actually buy it?
- More than any other. Cristaline is the best-selling still water in France and has repeatedly been named the country’s favourite drink brand.
His Verdict
Questions, answered
Is Cristaline actually French?
Yes, completely. Cristaline is owned by Sources Alma, a French company, and is drawn from more than twenty regional springs across France, with the specific spring named on each bottle. It is classed as eau de source rather than mineral water, and it is the best-selling still water in the country.
Who owns Cristaline?
Sources Alma (France). Yes. Sources Alma, a French company. The brand was created in 1992.
Do French people actually drink Cristaline?
More than any other. Cristaline is the best-selling still water in France and has repeatedly been named the country’s favourite drink brand.
Sources
- Sources Alma — brand history, classification and spring network. link
Verdict verified August 2026. Ownership changes hands often; if this is out of date, tell us and we will correct it and say so.