Calvados

Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile

Calvados is rich in apple flavor, with a wide range of profiles depending on its aging process and the types of apples used. Younger Calvados tends to be fresh, crisp, and fruity, with notes of green apple, pear, and citrus. As it ages, the flavors develop more complexity, with hints of dried fruit, oak, spice, and sometimes caramel. The best expressions of Calvados have a smooth, balanced finish with a pleasant warming sensation, making it a versatile spirit that is both bold and approachable.

Which Calvados Should I Try First?

If you're new to Calvados, start with a Père Magloire VS (Very Special), a youthful and crisp expression with fresh apple and floral notes. For a more refined experience, try Domaine Dupont Calvados or Calvados Boulard VSOP, both of which offer a well-balanced combination of apple fruitiness, spice, and oak from aging in French oak casks. For a richer, more complex experience, try Berneroy XO, which has been aged for several years, developing deeper, smoother flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and vanilla.

How Should I Drink Calvados?

Calvados is versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:

• Neat: Sip it slowly in a tulip-shaped glass to savor its complex flavors, especially aged expressions that have developed more depth over time.
  
  
• On the Rocks: Add ice for a smoother, more refreshing experience, especially on warm days.
  
  
• In Cocktails: Calvados can be used in cocktails such as the Apple Martini, Calvados Sour, or a classic Pimm's Cup, where its fruity, apple-forward flavor adds a unique twist.
  
  

What Foods Pair Well with Calvados?

Calvados pairs beautifully with a variety of foods, especially those with rich, savory flavors or sweet desserts:

• Cheese: Pair Calvados with hard cheeses like Comté, Brie, or Camembert, which complement its fruity and floral notes.
  
  
• Charcuterie: Cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, or paté work well with the smooth, apple-forward character of Calvados.
  
  
• Apple-Based Desserts: Given its apple base, Calvados pairs wonderfully with apple tarts, crumbles, or caramelized apple desserts.
  
  
• Grilled Meats: Calvados also complements grilled meats, such as roasted pork, lamb, or game, where its sweetness balances the richness of the dish.
  
  

How Should I Store Calvados?

Store your Calvados in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain its flavor and aroma. Keep the bottle upright to preserve the cork and prevent air from entering the bottle, which can affect the quality of the spirit. Like most spirits, Calvados doesn’t require refrigeration and can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled depending on your preference.

Does Calvados Improve with Age?

Yes, Calvados improves with age. While younger Calvados is crisp, fruity, and bright, aged expressions develop deeper, richer flavors, often gaining complexity with notes of dried fruit, spice, and oak. Some high-quality Calvados can be aged for many years, developing a smoother, more refined profile that is ideal for sipping.

Explore our Calvados collection and discover the rich, fruity flavors of this exceptional apple brandy. Whether you're sipping it neat, mixing it into cocktails, or pairing it with food, Calvados offers a unique, complex experience that captures the essence of Normandy’s apple orchards.