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Calvados Adrien Camut 18 Year
Distiller Score 97
Out of all of Camut's line this might be the best. There is still plenty of delicious baked apple fruit that the younger expressions show, but it is now joined by a healthy dose of spicy oak and a touch of nutty rancio. Quite simply, this Calvados has it all. Its 40% alcohol seems almost undetectable, all one experiences is a rich, warming drink of concentrated apple and toffee goodness. Bravo to the Camut family for making a spirit so exuberantly youthful, but incredibly refined without becoming woody, tannic, or tired.
Reviewed by John Rankin
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Christian Drouin Hors d'Age Calvados
Distiller Score 90
The oak, the apples, and a characteristic spicy-vinegar note all contribute to the sense of dimension and completeness this displays on the nose. On the palate these components are more integrated, giving rise to a toasty, nutty, sherried aspect and a distinctive note of bubblegum which, though pleasant, is a bit distracting.
Reviewed by Duncan McRoberts
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Roger Groult Calvados 12 Year
Distiller Score 93
A bright copper-orange hue, this Roger Groult Calvados 12 Year combines freshness and maturity, with aromas of baked apple, of course, but also pears, white flowers and baking spices including nutmeg and allspice. There’s a brisk, spicy opening that becomes honeyed, rich and citrusy as it fills the mouth. At the finish there’s a mouth-watering tang with subtle sweetness and richness and a sophistication worthy of an older marque.
Reviewed by Jack Robertiello
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Christian Drouin XO Calvados
Distiller Score 90
The influence of cognac and sherry casks here is almost unmistakable, but adds a welcome aromatic signature. The nutty, saline and sea-breeze character form a nice counterpoint to the dense, vivid, ripe apple component. This has clearly gained depth and complexity with age, but it has not fallen into the trap of becoming too oxidative or overwhelmed by wood.
Reviewed by Duncan McRoberts