Christian Drouin XO Calvados is produced in the Pays d'Auge from bitter, bitter-sweet, sweet and sharp cider apples by double distillation in copper stills. XO in age, it spends its maturation process in small previously-used casks, including some former wine casks. The blend also contains some sprits aged in former fortified wine casks and brandy casks, adding further sweetness and complexity to the overall finish of this stunning blend.
From fruity aromas of fresh apples to ripe apples, cooked apples, stewed apples and then dried fruit – the aromatic profile of the calvados is enhanced by floral and spicy notes taken from the wood. Meanwhile, the Calvados gradually becomes smoother as the years pass by. It’s down to Christian Drouin and his son Guillaume to decide when the process is complete and the sweet liquid gold is ready for bottling.
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.
Dressed in a suave and sophisticated bottle, the presentation of Christian Drouin XO is in keeping with other bottles of the brand’s collection in terms of form. This unique product, however, features metallic orange embellishments including a lions crest which appears to be symbolic of the brand’s company logo. Further orange details are seen on the neck of the bottle and typography - a design choice that completes the overall design with elegant harmony. An elegant bottle worthy of its place in even the most discerning of spirits collections.
Calvados XO is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Pour into the glass and allow it to sit for a few minutes as the aromas open up, then slowly sip the delicious nectar and immerse the senses completely towards the tasting. 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 begin the tasting after your meal with a quality Prince Hoyo cigar.
Score 90+, Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge, 2019
Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirit Competition (USA),
2019 Silver Medal, Concours Agricole de Paris, 2018, (France)
Bronze Medal, Cambremer, 2018, (France)
5 stars, Bevx.com 2017 (USA)
Silver Medal, Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Competition 2016 (Hong Kong)
Double Gold Medal, 10th annual judging of craft spirits by the American Distilling Institute 2016 (USA)
Best of Category, 10th annual judging of craft spirits by the American Distilling Institute 2016 (USA)
98/100, « Extraordinary, ultimate recommendation", Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2016 (USA)
Silver Medal, Vinalies Internationales 2015 Silver Gilt Medal, Vimoutiers 2015 (France) 94/100, « Excellent, Highly Recommended, Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2015 (USA)
Award of Excellence, Saint Hilaire du Harcourt's contest 2015 (France)
Silver Medal San Fransisco World Spirits Competition 2014 (USA) 92/100 "Excellent, Highly Recommended", Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2013 (USA)
Gold Medal, I.W.S.C. London 2013 (UK)
Silver Medal, Bruxelles 2013 (Belgium)
88/100, Guilde Gilbert & Gaillard 2014 (France)
92/100 Ultimate Spirits 2013 (USA) « Prix Vinalies » 2012 (France)
Gold Medal, Vimoutiers 2012 (France)
A big bowl of over ripe apples and pears that are not quite ready with a little crushed rhubarb. Some soft caramel toffee as well. The caramel sweetness is the first thing to hit the palate before a fruity explosion followed by spicy fireworks. But the heat is muted and the spices unfold on the tongue...
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.
Read more about Christian Drouin
