Christian Drouin Calvados Sélection
is a bright, fruit-forward apple and pear brandy from Normandy, France. Unlike the company's Pays d'Auge AOC products, this particular Calvados is bottled under the broader Calvados AOC designation and features a significant percentage of perry (pear) eau-de-vie. The emphasis is on a fresher, lighter style that is very suitable for cocktails.
Tasting notes
- Aroma: Expect a fresh and fruity bouquet with dominant notes of ripe apple and green pear, alongside floral blossom and a hint of apple-juice sweetness. Some reviewers also find subtle hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and pear.
- Palate: The flavor is clean and crisp, with sweet apple and pear at the core. There can be notes of citrus peel, spice (like white pepper), and a fresh acidity.
- Finish: The finish is dry and lively, leaving a brisk aftertaste of green-apple skin and a slightly herbal, earthy character. It is noted for being refreshing and easy to drink.
How to serve and use
The fresh, fruit-forward profile of Drouin Sélection makes it highly versatile.
- Neat or chilled: It can be enjoyed on its own as a crisp aperitif or after-dinner drink.
- Cocktails: It is an excellent choice for a variety of cocktails, and its vibrant flavor adds a unique character to drinks.
- Cooking: It can also be used in cooking for sauces and flambé.
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