Calvados Adrien Camut 6 Year

It was an honor to work for the company that distributes this to my area. Where limited production truly signifies something, these people are still producing it the traditional way for generations. A delight if you can locate it, but the older batches are genuine rarities. Smell is apples, as it should be, but much more. The French cherish their “terroir” and this is a prime instance. It’s not simply the aroma of apples, it’s the stems and trees and soft, grassy earth below it. The sun is midway between its peak and setting casting a golden glow through the foliage. It’s the scent between summer and autumn with plenty of caramel and honey balancing it out. On the taste, it does come across as young, to be honest. But here it excels too, genuine cinnamon notes give it a taste almost like an unsweetened apple pastry. Nutmeg and clove make an appearance enhancing all the baking notes. Its youth keeps the apple flavors vibrant and fresh, similar to a good cider rather than being dulled by the wood. And for only being six years old, it has excellent body and tannic structure. I would be keen to sample eau de vie straight from the still for comparison. Its finish is where its age becomes apparent. While excellent in its warming qualities, it is a joy that departs far too rapidly. Parting is such sweet sorrow.

Incredibly aromatic with notes of apples, thick apple skins, cider, and lavender. It has a smooth texture, reminiscent of apple purée with cinnamon, just like homemade. The finish is brief but leaves your mouth watering. A truly beautiful Brandy.