These 5 “forbidden” Calvados are all the rage at Christmas
Here we are, approaching the end-of-year festivities, a time for celebrations and refined gifts. As spirits enthusiasts, we have selected for you five exceptional calvados that will delight the most demanding palates. These Norman spirits are experiencing a spectacular revival, now attracting a younger and more cosmopolitan audience. Let's dive together into the captivating world of this amber nectar, the fruit of a unique terroir and ancestral know-how.
The art of Calvados: between tradition and modernity
Calvados, long associated with the image of the Normandy trou or grandpa's digestif, is brilliantly reinventing itself. Today, this apple (and sometimes pear) brandy is making its way into the trendiest cocktail bars from Paris to New York. Its authenticity and versatility make it an ingredient of choice for creative mixologists .
We have noticed that producers are constantly innovating to attract new consumers. Finishing in barrels that have contained other spirits (whisky, rum, wine) brings new nuances. This practice, called "finish", is not new but is experiencing a resurgence of interest.
Here is an overview of the different names of Calvados:
| Name | Creation | Production share | Special feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calvados Pays d'Auge | 1942 | 29% | Double distillation |
| AOC Calvados | 1984 | 70% | Largest production |
| Calvados Domfrontais | 1997 | 1% | Pear predominance |
Our selection of the best Calvados to offer
After having travelled through the Normandy orchards and visited numerous distilleries, we have tasted a multitude of calvados to present our top 5. These bottles combine quality, originality and extraordinary value for money.
- Château du Breuil 8 years Sauternes Finish (43.4%): A gourmet Calvados with honeyed and fruity notes, perfect for beginners.
- Christian Drouin La Blanche Amphoria Bio (60%): An organic cider brandy, aged in amphora, offering freshness and complexity.
- Busnel Calvados Pays d'Auge Whisky Finish (40%): The subtle combination of apple and peat aromas for lovers of new things.
- Coquerel Signature Blend XO (40%): An elegant XO with floral and spicy notes, ideal as a digestif or in a cocktail.
- Christian Drouin Pays d'Auge 1991 (42%): An exceptional vintage for connoisseurs in search of rarity.
These Calvados perfectly illustrate the diversity and quality of Normandy production. They are original gift ideas around wine and spirits , combining tradition and modernity.
Taste and appreciate Calvados
As passionate sommeliers, we recommend several ways to enjoy these Norman nectars:
- Pure: To appreciate all the aromatic complexity, particularly of aged Calvados.
- On ice: Ideal for younger versions and warm days.
- In a cocktail: Calvados goes wonderfully in a revisited Old Fashioned or a French Connection.
- With cheese: Dare to pair it with a Livarot or a mature Comté.
Let's not forget the tradition of coffee-calvados, which is experiencing a resurgence of interest. This practice of adding a drop of calvados to your coffee offers a unique taste experience.
For the holidays, why not offer a wine or calvados advent calendar ? It's a fun way to discover different expressions of this Norman spirit.
Calvados, with its unbeatable value for money and its diversity, fully deserves its place under the tree. Whether you are a novice or an enlightened connoisseur, these Norman spirits will surprise you and enchant your taste buds. Do not hesitate to study this selection to find the rare gem that will delight your loved ones or yourself at the end of this festive year.
