Christian Drouin ABC de Christian Drouin Aperitif

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Christian Drouin ABC de Christian Drouin Aperitif

Product Story

Christian Drouin is perhaps the greatest of Calvados brands with a rich history and a depth of vintages that dazzle Brandy lovers. In recent years Guillaume Drouin has also moved the great Christian Drouin brand to be the leaders in innovation in the category. Christian Drouin’s superb “Le Gin” rightfully earned a lot of positive attention, as well as new blends such as their “Tres Pomme”. Now Christian Drouin offers us their "ABC de Christian Drouin” — an Aperitif Based on Calvados. The flavors are unmistakably apple and Calvados with a Pommeau de Normandie base. Mature Calvados is added to a fermenting apple must, arresting the sugars and fresh apple flavors in place. In the tradition of Vermouth aromatics such as quinquina, mugwort, cinnamon, orange, elderflower, and yuzu are added to the barrel. The result is an Aperitif like no other. Add this spirit to your bar today.

Brand Story

Christian Drouin Sr. bought a quaint country house set amongst orchards in Gonneville in the heart of Calvados Pays d'Auge in Normandy, France. He soon discovered that the price he could obtain for the apples he harvested would barely cover the cost of the harvest. His friend had a mobile still and advised on how to press the apples into cider and distill the cider into Brandy. Drouin Sr. had no previous experience but he did have good taste and had a great appreciation for quality wine and spirits. This, too, was his guide. The younger Christian Drouin is said to have contracted the Calvados virus from his father. While the stocks of incredible Calvados grew vintage after vintage, Christian knew that he must grow the reputation of Calvados and find customers for the great Brandy first in France and then the world. He succeeded. When I first met Christian Drouin well more than a decade ago he transmitted the Calvados appreciation virus to me and I've never been the same.

Tasting Note

Brilliant, medium golden/amber color. The aromatics are very intense, offering aromas of baked apple, jasmine, and orange peel with supporting notes of cinnamon, wild flowers, and candied citrus zest. The palate is in full agreement with the nose delivering a baked apple-driven core with supporting flavors of quince, apricot stone, peach, and kumquat. The finish is long and lingering. Medium-bodied and impeccably balanced with a supple texture. $34.99 –