The 2000 Domaine du Manoir de Montreuil Calvados 3 Years Old (42% Alc.) is a vibrant young Calvados Pays d'Auge from the historic Giard family, who have been crafting traditional apple brandies in Normandy for over fourteen generations. Produced exclusively from estate-grown cider apples, the fruit is left to ripen naturally before a slow fermentation of around one year. The cider is then double distilled in copper pot stills and matured for three years in seasoned French oak, preserving the purity and freshness of the fruit while adding subtle oak complexity. The nose is bright and inviting, offering crisp green apple, baked pear and fresh cider layered with vanilla, cinnamon and a touch of honey.
On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with lively apple fruit, gentle spice and a silky texture. Flavours of baked apple, citrus peel and warm baking spices are complemented by delicate oak and a clean, dry finish with impressive freshness. Youthful, energetic and beautifully balanced, it is an excellent introduction to traditional Pays d'Auge Calvados, equally enjoyable neat or in classic cocktails.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2000 Domaine du Manoir de Montreuil Calvados 3 Years Old (42% Alc.) is best served neat at 15–18°C, over a single ice cube if preferred, or as the base for classic cocktails such as a Jack Rose or Normandy Old Fashioned. It also pairs beautifully with apple tart, Camembert, pork terrine or crème brûlée. Enjoy now while its vibrant apple fruit and youthful freshness are at their best.
