REGION: Normandy

Since the 1800s, the Camut family has grown apple trees in the Pays d’Auge. While pears are allowed in Calvados, Camut uses only apples grown on the family property for their lush and highly coveted brandies.

The Lemorton family has a long history in the Domfront. The 9-acre property is planted with apple and pear trees, but the latter’s influence is dominant, creating a lighter-colored spirit that emits a distinct bouquet. Domfrontais Calvados law insists on at least 30% pear; Lemorton contains 80%.

On the Le Pertyer property in the Suisse-Normand (AOC Calvados), Francois Guillouet ferments and ages apple cider that it is then single distilled in a traveling column still. The spirits go into large, elongated barrels or well-seasoned 400-liter barrels ideal for developing complex flavor.