Calvados

What is Calvados

Calvados is an apple brandy produced in Normandy using fermented apple cider rather than grapes. The apples used are selected for balance, combining sweetness, acidity and bitterness to create complexity before distillation and ageing.

How Calvados is made

Apples are pressed into cider, fermented naturally and then distilled, either once or twice depending on regional rules. The resulting spirit is aged in oak barrels, where time softens the alcohol and introduces notes of vanilla, spice and dried fruit while retaining apple character.

Calvados ageing styles

Younger Calvados tends to be vibrant and fruit forward, with crisp apple and floral notes. As ageing increases, flavours become richer and more layered, developing baked apple, caramel, nutty tones and gentle oak spice. Older expressions are smooth, elegant and ideal for slow sipping.

Flavour profile and character

Calvados offers a unique balance between freshness and richness. Expect flavours of orchard fruit, apple skin, honey and citrus in younger styles, while mature bottles show depth through toasted oak, spice, dried fruit and subtle earthiness.

How to enjoy Calvados

Calvados can be enjoyed neat, lightly chilled or with a splash of water. It pairs exceptionally well with cheese, particularly hard or washed rind styles, and works beautifully after a meal. Younger Calvados can also be used in classic cocktails where apple character shines.

Why Calvados deserves attention

Often overlooked, Calvados delivers complexity comparable to fine whisky or cognac while offering a distinctly different flavour profile. It is a rewarding choice for those looking to explore something traditional yet distinctive within the world of aged spirits.

FAQs

What is Calvados made from?
Calvados is made from fermented apple cider, sometimes blended with pear, before distillation and ageing in oak.

Is Calvados sweet?
Calvados is not sweet, but it often tastes fruity due to apple flavours developed during fermentation and ageing.

How long is Calvados aged?
Ageing varies from a few years to well over a decade, with longer ageing creating deeper, smoother flavours.

Is Calvados similar to whisky or cognac?
Calvados shares the structure of aged spirits like whisky and cognac but offers a fruit driven profile based on apples rather than grain or grapes.