Christian Drouin 1987 - 2024 Calvados #3 "Noix Surprise" - Malternative Belgium

Pieter Knapen: "With great passion and pleasure, we share with you our third Calvados selection, a true treasure from the heart of Normandy. The port of Caen has always been a vital hub for European trade. Historically, numerous sherry casks arrived here from Spanish bodegas, which Normandy producers eagerly took advantage of. In this specific selection, aged in an Oloroso sherry cask since 1987, we have found true harmony—a perfect interplay between the fresh, ripe apple aromas of the Calvados and the rich, complex notes of the sherry cask. The dark mahogany color reveals its character—what a flavor bomb! Pays d’Auge Cru and 100% apples."

Label Explanation

Pieter Knapen: "In this enchanting scene, a miniature world unfolds, where tiny craftsmen work with great dedication on a monumental masterpiece: a majestic cake rising against a typical Norman backdrop. With precision and passion, the tiny figures orchestrate a culinary spectacle. Among the authentic timber-framed houses and lush orchards of Normandy, they build their creation layer by layer. Ripe apples from the region are carefully peeled, crisp walnuts lovingly shelled, and juicy figs precisely sliced."

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 Notes

Nose

Very rich, sweet aromas of dates, ripe cider apples, and fresh ham. A touch of old leather and dark chocolate.

Palate

Beautiful full-bodied aromas that fill the mouth, powerful and round in taste. Nutty and earthy flavors of truffle, combined with deep fruit notes of figs, apricot, and dates. Velvety butter combined with maritime salinity.

Finish

Very long, nutty, and sweet spices, definitely not drying—simply stunning!