Christian Drouin 1964 - 2024 Calvados #1 "Le Bolide Normand" - Malternative Belgium

Pieter Knapen: "This exceptional calvados comes from the protected cru Domfrontais, an area where the calvados must undergo at least 3 years of cask aging. The base for this calvados is a unique cider, composed of about 60% pear and 40% apple - well above the required 30% pear that the Domfrontais appellation prescribes. During our visit to the domain, it turned out to be the oldest cask in their possession. The quality was immediately convincing - as a taster, you just know it's right when the first impression brings a smile from ear to ear! For our first calvados selection, we absolutely wanted something special, and this edition meets all expectations of perfection.
This calvados also has a personal meaning for us. As founders of Malternative Belgium, Pieter and Ysatis both grew up in Haspengouw, the largest fruit region of Belgium. The aromas in this calvados evoke memories of our childhood among the fruit trees. This connection to our roots was therefore a natural reason to include calvados in our range alongside cognac."

Label explanation

Pieter Knapen: "The label tells a charming story of an adventurous family exploring the beautiful Calvados region of Normandy. Just like our first trip to Normandy in the summer of 2024. With nothing more than a gigantic apple as a symbol of their journey, they set out on a special discovery tour that will lead to a new series of characterful releases. Although they are already familiar with the noble art of distilling fruit as cognac connoisseurs, the adventure of Normandy's rich apple tradition beckons. A warm tribute to the centuries-old expertise of the Calvados makers, translated into a playful and inviting style that is so typical of Malternative Belgium. This family expedition symbolizes our own quest for authentic tastes and stories. Just like them, we always look beyond the known, seeking new treasures in the world of distilled drinks. A journey that is not only about the end product but also about the stories, the people, and the passion behind it."

Christian Drouin

In the lush Touques Valley in Pont-l'Evêque, amidst the Pays d'Auge with its authentic architecture, you will find a true gem of French distillation: the family distillery of Christian Drouin. For three generations, this beautiful 17th-century farm has told the story of passion, craftsmanship, and tradition in the world of Calvados, cider, and Pommeau de Normandie. Established in 1960, the first Calvados was marketed in 1979. Surrounding the characteristic estate are majestic high-stem apple trees bearing as many as 25 different types of cider apples. This traditional, intensive cultivation method reflects the dedication to authenticity that defines the Drouin house. Production takes place not only here but also at the historic farm in Gonneville-sur-Honfleur and extends to their cellar in Domfront.

Christian Drouin is not only a producer but also a Négociant-Éleveur. This is a trader specializing in aging eaux-de-vie, bottling, and commercializing them at a later stage. This type of négociant buys both young and old Calvados from other small local producers, focusing on aging under their own care, in their own cellar, with their own oak cask policy, and so on. Christian Drouin is located just 15 minutes from Deauville and 20 minutes from the picturesque Honfleur.

Tasting note

Nose

Very complex and overripe high-stem fruit with a tropical warmth and length.

Taste

Syrup from Vrolingen (old apple syrup) with a very oily structure. Lovely balance between complexity and age. Polished cedar wood, candied fruit, and black tea from Mozambique with dried apple.

Finish

Very long and complex, pear compote and nutty with light spices.