Christian Drouin Millésime 1989 is a vintage Calvados distilled in 1989 and matured in sherry casks before bottling at 42% alcohol in 700ml format. This single vintage expression reflects more than three decades of maturation, combining the structure of long aging with the influence of fortified wine casks. It has received international recognition, including a Silver Medal at the Concours de Bruxelles 2018, World’s Best Calvados at the World Calvados Awards 2017, and Silver Medal – Best in Class at the I.W.S.C. London 2008.
The house of Christian Drouin is widely respected in Normandy for its focus on precision and long maturation. The 1989 vintage originates from carefully selected cider apples, distilled in traditional copper stills and aged for decades in oak. For this expression, maturation in sherry casks plays a defining role. Sherry wood introduces layers of dried fruit, nutty depth and gentle oxidative notes, complementing the natural orchard fruit core of the distillate.
The 1989 growing season in Normandy provided healthy fruit with balanced sugar and acidity levels, contributing to the structured base cider. After fermentation, the cider was double distilled, preserving aromatic purity. Over time, interaction with oak gradually softened the spirit while concentrating its fruit profile. The additional sherry cask aging enhanced complexity, adding richness without overpowering the Calvados identity.
On the nose, the Calvados opens with baked apple and stewed orchard fruits, followed by raisins, dried fig and plum. Orange peel and walnut emerge, alongside subtle cocoa and light spice. The aromatic profile shows maturity and controlled oxidation, typical of long-aged spirits finished or matured in fortified wine barrels.
The palate is round and composed. Apple compote and quince provide the fruit core, while almond, dark chocolate and dried fruits add depth. The sherry cask contributes gentle sweetness and nutty warmth, yet balance is maintained through fresh apple acidity and refined oak integration. The structure remains clear, never heavy.
The finish is long and steady, carrying dried fruit, polished wood and subtle spice. A final touch of orange zest and walnut lingers.
The house of Drouin tells a story of passion starting in 1960 when Christian Drouin Senior became the owner of Fiefs SaintAnne on the Gonneville hills, near Honfleur. Once the farm was planted with apple trees, he acquired a hunger to produce his own Calvados. For the next twenty years, he did just that going headfirst into the distillation process, before putting the eux-de-vie aside for aging. Ever since the family business has continued to blossom with Christian Drouin Junior and his son Guillaume now at the forefront of production and business management.
Displayed in a suave and sophisticated bottle, the presentation of the Millesime collection features bronzed embellishments including a lions crest which appears to be symbolic of the brand’s company logo. Further bronze details add an even further touch of opulence that contrasts well against the dark glass and black neck of the bottle. An elegant bottle design worthy of its place in even the most discerning of spirits collections.
Pour Calvados 1989 into the glass and allow it to sit for a few minutes as the aromas open up, then slowly sip the delicious nectar, neat at room temperature. You may want to add a few ice cubes to the glass or a drop of mineral water. Pair with a Tarte Tatin as a digestive alongside dessert. Or complete the tasting after your meal with a quality Prince Hoyo cigar.
Silver Medal, Bruxelles Competition, 2018 (Belgium)
World's Best Calvados, World Calvados Awards, 2017 (UK)
Silver Medal, Best in class, I.W.S.C. London 2008 (UK)
Founded in 1960, Christian Drouin is a celebrated family-owned Calvados distillery in the heart of Normandy. Known for its dedication to quality, the house meticulously crafts Calvados from a variety of apples grown in its organic orchards. With a rich tradition spanning three generations, Christian Drouin has become renowned for producing both young and aged Calvados that captures the essence of Normandy's terroir. The distillery's expertise in aging and blending creates a sophisticated and diverse range of spirits, perfect for those seeking a true taste of French craftsmanship.
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