It is with great pleasure that we unveil two extraordinary treasures from the esteemed Christian Drouin estate - the Cidre Bouche Brut de Normandie and their remarkable Calvados. These exceptional offerings have long been cherished as staff favourites and hidden gems, and we are thrilled to share their captivating stories with you.
Christian Drouin is a family-owned producer hailing from the picturesque Pays d'Auge region in Normandy, France. With a rich history spanning back to 1960, the Drouin family has been at the forefront of crafting exquisite calvados and cider, epitomizing the artistry and tradition of the region.
Let us first indulge in the secrets of the Cidre Bouche Brut de Normandie. Handcrafted with meticulous care, this cider showcases the essence of Normandy's renowned apple orchards. Carefully selected apples, comprising a harmonious blend of bitter, sweet, and acidic varieties, are handpicked from the region's finest orchards. These apples are then crushed, and naturally fermented using wild yeasts. This slow fermentation process captures the essence of the apples, resulting in a cider that is both complex and elegant. The cider is further aged in oak casks, adding depth and refinement to its character.
On the nose, the cider entices with the alluring aromas of ripe apples, accompanied by delicate floral notes and hints of earthiness. With each sip, the cider reveals a symphony of flavours in a harmonious blend of sweet and tart profiles. Layers of apple, pear, and citrus are enhanced by fine bubbles that create a creamy mouthfeel. The cider culminates with a refreshing and invigorating finish, owed to its crisp acidity. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with a range of dishes, this promises to elevate your drinking experience.
Calvados is a distinguished apple brandy produced in the region, where the art of distillation is passed down through generations. Christian Drouin's Calvados represents the epitome of this craft, combining tradition, expertise, and the finest apple orchards.
The production process begins with the careful selection of apples, handpicked at their peak ripeness. These apples are then crushed and left to ferment, resulting in a unique apple cider. Following fermentation, the cider is distilled using traditional methods, utilizing copper stills. The distilled spirit is then aged in oak barrels, allowing it to develop its characteristic complexity and depth over time. The maturation process imparts notes of vanilla, spices, and oak, intertwining beautifully with the apple flavours.
The nose is greeted with the inviting aromas of baked apples, caramel, and hints of cinnamon. On the palate, layers of fruit and spice emerge, offering a rich and velvety mouthfeel. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth that invites further exploration.
These hidden gems from Christian Drouin, the Cidre Bouche Brut de Normandie and their remarkable Calvados, embody the essence of Normandy's revered apple heritage. Visit Glengarry today to acquire your own bottles of these extraordinary offerings, and elevate your appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that Christian Drouin delivers.