The Data

Category   Brandy

Sub-Category   Calvados, Pays d’Auge

Origin   Normandy

Retail Price   $163.99

ABV   40%

Score   4 Stars/Exceptional!

In the Glass

Brilliant, crystal clear.

The aromatics are rich and dense with scents of wild honey, baked apples, caramel, red fruits, almonds, brown baking spices, and dried fruits (fruitcake like).

The palate is in full accord with the nose delivering waves of fruit ranging from plum, red berries, apricot, and of course apple with hints of honeycomb, nutmeg, and oak.

Medium to full-bodied with intense waves of fruit and spice while maintaining a very pleasing balance.

Cool Factor

It's impossible for me to give any Christian Drouin product anything less that an "A" for cool as these represent some of the finest spirits the world has to offer.

Value Grade

These handcrafted spirits from Christian Drouin are not cheap but how could they be? Every offering is well worth the asking price.

Analysis

The 1996 vintage is double distilled and aged in traditional Calvados casks followed by some time in former Banyuls casks. The result is a Calvados that weaves red fruits with the rich apple notes creating a very unique Brandy.

How to Enjoy

Sip neat in a Brandy glass after dinner, or by a roaring fire.