EXCEPTIONAL CALVADOS – Christian Drouin – Hampden Angel – 44%
The Maison Christian Drouin is an undisputed reference for exceptional Calvados, located in the heart of the Pays d’Auge in Normandy, a region world-renowned for its apple-based spirits. Founded in 1960 by Christian Drouin Sr., on the Fiefs Saint-Anne estate near Honfleur, the house cultivates carefully selected cider apple orchards. Driven by a passion for the Norman terroir and traditional know-how, Christian Drouin partnered with Pierre Pivet, a recognized master distiller, to craft a high-quality artisanal Calvados. The first two decades were dedicated to the creation and patient aging of their eaux-de-vie in the family cellars. In 1969, Christian Drouin Jr. joined the venture and, from 1979, began marketing, notably to luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants. Buoyed by success, the Drouin family moved production near Pont-l’Évêque in 1991 to increase aging capacity.
In 2004, Guillaume Drouin, the third generation, joined the family business. An agricultural engineer and oenologist, he focused on expanding the export of their high-end Calvados before taking over production management, then company leadership from 2013, thus continuing the tradition of excellence.
The apples used come from two distinct orchards comprising more than thirty old varieties, cultivated respecting organic farming. The slow fermentation of the cider precedes a double distillation in a remarkable 2,500-liter pot still, ensuring finesse and aromatic complexity. Aging is carried out exclusively in former noble casks that previously held Sherry, Port, Rivesaltes, Banyuls, and other great wines, imparting subtle aromas and great depth to the Calvados.
Calvados Hampden Angel stands out as a premium 14-year-old Calvados, renowned for its rarity and intensity. Its specific maturation during the last 8 months in American oak barrels that held the legendary Jamaican rum Hampden (4 years) gives it unmatched aromatic elegance, blending power, roundness, and unique exotic notes. Ideal for tasting, this Calvados is aimed at lovers of exceptional spirits seeking the quintessence of the Norman terroir.
Discover this rare gem on Clos des Spiritueux, the essential reference for purchasing Calvados and premium spirits online.
