Understanding
the label
The Calvados from the three appellations are separated into two types: blends and vintages.
In the cellars
Blending demands all the cellar master’s art and skill. This delicate operation is mainly performed through a succession of tastings and great skill is required to find the perfect balance between the oaky, fruity or floral aromas of the different eau-de-vies.
The cellar master therefore decides to blend eau-de-vies of different ages together to perfect the spirit’s balance thanks to the complementary qualities of each one.
Once these blends are bottled, the age indication on the label (15 years, 20 years, 30 years, ‚..) only takes into account the age of the youngest Calvados in the blend.
In other words, a 50-year-old Calvados can be included in the composition of a Calvados with a “30 years” age statement.
As for the vintage Calvados, these are blends of eau-de-vies that have been distilled in the same year and this year then appears on the label.
It is also recommended that the year of bottling be mentioned on the label because a Calvados, once bottled, no longer ages.
Although it is not mandatory, the age statement — if it is provided — must comply with the following specifications:
How do you heat a still?
A still can be heated by gas or, more traditionally, by wood.
