I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit six Calvados distilleries in Normandy, where I explored the production process behind this iconic French apple brandy and learned about the sustainable practices that define it. Normandy, a region in northern France, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and exceptional culinary traditions. Recently, I embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to this beautiful region to dive deep into the world of Calvados, the famous apple and pear spirit. Over several days, I had the opportunity to visit six distinguished Calvados distilleries, each offering a unique insight into the craftsmanship and passion that go into making this iconic spirit. This trip was not only a discovery of flavors but also an exploration of the deep-rooted traditions that define Calvados.
Discovering Calvados: Visiting Six Unique Distilleries in Normandy
During my Calvados study tour in Normandy, I visited six exceptional distilleries, each representing the unique characteristics of different Calvados appellations. These distilleries offered a rich blend of history, tradition, and innovation, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the world of Calvados production.
La Spiriterie Française – Château du Breuil
Located in the majestic 16th-century Château du Breuil in Le Breuil-en-Auge, La Spiriterie Française is one of Normandy’s most prestigious distilleries. Founded in 1954, this distillery produces a wide range of spirits, including Calvados, Pommeau, and liqueurs. Showing a commitment to innovation while maintaining traditional Calvados production methods.
Christian Drouin
Christian Drouin’s distillery is a family-owned operation nestled in the heart of the Pays d’Auge, a region famous for producing some of the best Calvados. The Drouin family has been perfecting their craft for three generations, focusing on the traditional methods of Calvados production. Their range includes vintage Calvados, as well as unique blends and limited editions that have won numerous awards. The estate, located near Pont-l’Évêque, offers visitors an immersive experience in the history and production of Calvados, with tours that include tastings and insights into the distillation process.
Maison Busnel
Maison Busnel is one of the oldest and most respected names in Calvados production. Established in 1820, this distillery has maintained a commitment to traditional methods, particularly the double distillation process in copper stills, which is key to producing the smooth, rich Calvados for which they are known. Located in the heart of the Pays d’Auge, Maison Busnel offers a deep dive into the heritage and craftsmanship of Calvados, making it a must-visit for any enthusiast.
Calvados Boulard
Calvados Boulard is famed for its expertise in aging Calvados. The distillery specializes in maturing their spirits in oak barrels, a process that adds depth and complexity to the flavor. Located in the Pays d’Auge, Boulard has been a family-run operation since 1825, and their commitment to quality has earned them a reputation as one of the top producers in the region. Visitors to the distillery can explore the aging cellars and enjoy tastings that showcase the rich, amber hues and layered flavors of Boulard Calvados.
Ferme des Grimaux – Pacory
Ferme des Grimaux is a family-run distillery in the Domfrontais region, known for its pear-infused Calvados. This area’s unique terroir and the high percentage of pear trees in the orchards give Domfrontais Calvados its distinctive fruity and floral notes. At Ferme des Grimaux, the Pacory family continues to uphold traditional methods while focusing on sustainable farming practices. The result is a Calvados that is both traditional and innovative, offering a unique taste of the region.
Coquerel Calvados
Finally, my journey brought me to Coquerel Calvados, where the blend of tradition and innovation is on full display. Located near Mont-Saint-Michel, Coquerel has been producing Calvados, Pommeau, cider, and gin since 1937. The distillery prides itself on its innovative approach to production while remaining deeply rooted in the Calvados tradition. Their range includes both classic and contemporary expressions of Calvados, making it a perfect stop for anyone interested in exploring the full spectrum of what this spirit has to offer.
The Orchards: The Heart of Calvados Production
One of the most enlightening aspects of my trip to Normandy was visiting the apple and pear orchards that supply these distilleries. These orchards are not just fields of fruit trees; they are carefully managed ecosystems where sustainable practices are key to producing high-quality Calvados. The choice of apple and pear varieties, the timing of the harvest, and the methods used to cultivate the trees all play a crucial role in the final product.
Sustainability is at the core of Calvados production. Each producer I visited emphasized their commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring that their practices not only produce excellent Calvados but also preserve the land for future generations. This dedication to sustainability resonated deeply with me and added another layer of appreciation for the craft of Calvados.
The Calvados Production Process: A Blend of Art and Science
The production of Calvados is a fascinating blend of art and science. The process begins with the careful selection of apples and pears, which are then fermented and distilled to create the base spirit. Each Calvados appellation has its own unique methods, resulting in a diverse range of flavor profiles.
In the Pays d’Auge region, the traditional method of double distillation in copper stills is used to create a smooth, rich spirit. This technique intensifies the flavors and gives Pays d’Auge Calvados its distinctive character. In contrast, the Domfrontais region is known for its use of pears, which adds a fruity, floral note to the Calvados. The aging process in oak barrels further enhances the complexity of the spirit, resulting in a product that is both versatile and refined.
The People Behind Calvados: Passionate Producers
The highlight of my Calvados journey was undoubtedly the people I met along the way. The producers were not only experts in their craft but also passionate advocates for Calvados. Their hospitality and willingness to share their knowledge made the experience truly special
The Versatility of Calvados: A Spirit for Every Occasion
One of the most exciting discoveries of my trip was the versatility of Calvados. This spirit can be enjoyed in a variety of ways—sipped neat, mixed in cocktails, or paired with food. I was particularly intrigued by how well Calvados pairs with Normandy cheeses and desserts, offering endless possibilities for culinary exploration.
Each distillery visit added a new dimension to my understanding of Calvados. I learned how different aging processes, blends, and production techniques contribute to the spirit’s complexity and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned Calvados enthusiast or new to this spirit, there’s always something new to discover.
For more inspiration and information about Calvados, including its history, production process, and where to enjoy it, visit https://drinkcalvados.com/en/ This resource offers a deep dive into the world of Calvados, with insights into its appellations, distilleries, and how to appreciate this unique spirit #authenticspiritsfromeurope
