Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted in the heart of Normandy near the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel, Coquerel Calvados is a testament to over three generations of expertise in French apple brandy. This signature fine blend is aged for a minimum of two years in French oak barrels, delivering a fresh and fruity profile with captivating notes of crisp apples and sweet vanilla. Made from a blend of specially selected bitter, bittersweet, and tart apples, this Calvados achieves a perfect balance of flavors, enhanced by meticulous aging techniques. Ideal for sipping neat or in cocktails like the Coquerel Tonic, this 40% ABV premium apple brandy offers an authentic taste of Normandy's rich heritage and terroir, making it an essential choice for spirits enthusiasts seeking refinement and tradition.
Process & Profile
The journey of Coquerel Calvados begins with over 40 varieties of apples—ranging from sweet to tart—harvested at their peak in Normandy's orchards. These apples naturally ferment into a high-quality cider over 21 days, adhering to the traditional methods of the region. The cider is then distilled in traditional copper stills to create a fresh and fruity eau-de-vie, which is aged in French oak barrels. This meticulous process allows the Calvados to develop a rich complexity without overshadowing the apple-forward essence. For Coquerel's signature blends, the aging duration varies, with the Fine Calvados aging at least 2 years, the VSOP for 4 years, and premium XO expressions aged up to 10 years or more. Every sip conveys Normandy's terroir, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.Tasting Notes
Coquerel Calvados boasts a vibrant flavor profile that emphasizes its fruity heritage. Here's what you can expect from popular expressions:- Fine Calvados (2-Year): Fresh and fruity with pronounced notes of sweet vanilla and ripe apples. The finish is clean, fresh, and floral.
- VSOP (4-Year): Offers aromas of baked apples, clove, and slight herbaceous notes. On the palate, it's spicy with hints of oak, toffee, and vanilla, leaving a medium-long dry finish.
- XO (6+ Years): A sophisticated blend with rich apple compote, vanilla, hazelnuts, and oak. Expect layers of honey, chocolate, and a touch of citrus for a luxurious experience.
What Makes It Special
- Heritage and Craftsmanship: Established in 1937, Coquerel Calvados reflects Normandy's rich traditions and innovative spirit, making it a leading ambassador of French apple brandy.
- Superior Ingredients: The apples are harvested with care, and only naturally fallen fruit is used to ensure optimum flavor and authenticity.
- Dedicated Aging Techniques: From large foudres to smaller oak barrels, the unique aging process enhances the spirit's bouquet while preserving its apple-forward charm.
- Sustainability and Tradition: Produced by a family-owned distillery, Coquerel supports local farmers, maintaining a balance between sustainability and artisanal excellence.
How to Enjoy
Coquerel Calvados is versatile in its enjoyment, lending itself to diverse applications:- Neat: Savor the spirit's intricate layers of flavor slowly, ideal after a meal as a digestif.
- With Food: Pair it with Normandy staples like brie, camembert, chicken in apple cream sauce, or apple-based desserts like tarte tatin for an authentic culinary experience.
- In Cocktails:
- Innovative Twists: Try it in coffee, over sorbet, or as part of creative cocktails like Negronis or Espresso Martinis for a modern twist on traditional drinking styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coquerel Calvados?
Coquerel Calvados is an apple-based brandy produced in the Normandy region of France. It is crafted using a blend of cider apples and sometimes pears, following strict AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) regulations. The spirit is distilled and aged in French oak barrels to develop its unique flavors.
How is Coquerel Calvados made?
The process begins with the fermentation of a blend of cider apples into a cider with an alcohol content of at least 4.5%. The cider is then distilled in copper column stills to produce an Eau de Vie, a raw spirit. This spirit is aged for a minimum of two years in French oak barrels, although many Coquerel Calvados varieties are aged much longer.
What makes Coquerel Calvados unique?
Coquerel Calvados is known for using over 40 varieties of apples to create a balanced mix of sweet, sharp, bittersweet, and bittersharp flavors. The brand's commitment to quality is evident in its natural fermentation process, meticulous distillation, and careful aging, which enhance the fruit-forward and complex aroma of its spirits.
What are the different varieties of Coquerel Calvados?
Coquerel offers multiple varieties based on aging periods, including: - **VS (Very Special):** Aged for at least 2 years, offering fresh apple flavors with subtle spice notes. - **VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale):** Aged for at least 4 years, featuring richer toffee and vanilla notes with cooked apple undertones. - **XO (Extra Old):** Aged for a minimum of 6 years, known for its complex flavors of apple pie, chocolate, and a nutty finish.
What is the best way to enjoy Coquerel Calvados?
Coquerel Calvados can be enjoyed in various ways: - **Neat:** Best for aged varieties like XO, which offer complex and layered flavors. - **Cocktails:** Younger varieties like VS and VSOP work well in cocktails such as Brandy Sour or long drinks with soda or tonic water. - **Culinary Use:** Use in cooking or as a pairing with desserts like apple-based pastries.
What is the story behind Coquerel Calvados?
Founded in 1937 by René Gilbert, Coquerel remains a family-run distillery. Located near Mont-Saint-Michel, it is one of the few remaining independent producers of Calvados. Over the decades, the brand has received numerous accolades for its high-quality spirits, including awards for its exceptional cellar management.
How many apples are used to make a bottle of Coquerel Calvados?
It takes approximately 13 pounds of apples to produce a single 750ml bottle of Coquerel Calvados.
How does Coquerel Calvados differ from Cognac?
While both are brandies, Coquerel Calvados is made from apples (and sometimes pears), whereas Cognac is distilled from grapes. Calvados has a fruity, cider-like aroma and taste, whereas Cognac leans toward grape and floral notes.
Is Coquerel Calvados sustainable?
Yes, Coquerel values sustainable practices. The apple orchards are managed to maintain soil health, and the distillery uses natural fermentation methods without additives. The production process emphasizes preserving the natural aromas and flavors of apples while minimizing environmental impact.
Where can I visit the Coquerel Distillery?
Coquerel's distillery is located in Milly, Normandy, just a few kilometers from Mont-Saint-Michel. Visitors can take guided tours, learn about the production process, and sample their products. Advance appointments are recommended for group visits.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
You may also like
Recently viewed
