Domaine Dupont 17 Year Old Calvados

Domaine Dupont 17 Year Old Calvados: A Deep Dive into a Normandy Treasure

The Domaine Dupont 17 Year Old Calvados is a revelation for any connoisseur of aged spirits. Hailing from the heart of the Pays d'Auge, the AOC-designated region renowned for exceptional Calvados production, this spirit boasts a depth of character and complexity that speaks volumes about the Dupont family's dedication to quality.

This detailed tasting note will guide you through the sensory experience of Domaine Dupont's 17 Year Old Calvados, exploring its aroma, flavour profile, and finish, while also offering perfect serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment.

Aroma:

• First Impression: The initial impression is one of captivating richness. A wave of ripe orchard fruits, dominated by crisp green apples and pears, mingles beautifully with hints of honeyed sweetness.
• Deeper Exploration: As the spirit opens up, a layer of enticing complexity unfolds. Delicate floral notes, reminiscent of elderflower and lavender, emerge, followed by subtle hints of citrus zest and marmalade. Underpinning all these elements is a gentle oak influence, imparting a touch of vanilla, spice, and a hint of wood smoke.

Flavour:

• Initial Palate: The first sip delivers a burst of concentrated apple and pear flavours, their sweetness balanced by a pleasant acidity that keeps the spirit lively. The oak influence becomes more pronounced on the palate, offering notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of cocoa.
• Mid-palate: As the spirit develops, a surprising creaminess emerges, reminiscent of vanilla custard or crème brûlée. Hints of candied orange peel and mandarin add further intrigue, while a warming spiciness builds gently.

Finish:

• Length: The finish is remarkably long and lingering. The creamy texture persists, carrying the flavours of spiced fruit, oak, and a touch of citrus through to a satisfying conclusion.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Domaine Dupont's 17 Year Old Calvados, consider these serving suggestions:

• Neat: This is the ideal way to savour the spirit in its purest form. Pour a chilled measure (50ml) into a snifter glass and allow it to warm slightly in your hand. Breathe in the aromas and take small sips, allowing the flavour profile to unfold gradually.
• Digestif: Domaine Dupont 17 Year Old Calvados makes a magnificent digestif after a rich meal. Its complex flavours help cleanse the palate and stimulate digestion. Serve it neat in a snifter glass at room temperature.
• Cheese Pairing: This Calvados pairs exceptionally well with strong cheeses like Roquefort, Comté, or aged Cheddar. The creamy sweetness of the spirit cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful harmony of flavours.
• After-dinner Cocktail: For a touch of theatricality, try a "Calvados brûlé." Warm a measure of Calvados in a heatproof glass or small saucepan. Add a sugar cube and caramelise it with a kitchen torch or under a preheated grill. Extinguish the flame (if using a torch) and carefully add a splash of cold water. Stir gently and serve warm.

Additional Notes:

• Ageing: The 17-year ageing period plays a significant role in the exceptional character of this Calvados. The extended time spent in oak barrels allows the spirit to develop its depth of flavour and complexity.
• Production Method: Domaine Dupont employs traditional double distillation techniques, ensuring a pure and elegant spirit. Their meticulous selection of apples from the Pays d'Auge further contributes to the quality of the final product.

In Conclusion:

Domaine Dupont's 17 Year Old Calvados is a truly remarkable spirit, offering a luxurious and rewarding tasting experience. Its depth of character, balanced sweetness, and lingering finish make it a must-try for any Calvados enthusiast or appreciator of fine aged spirits. With its versatility in serving suggestions, this Calvados can be enjoyed neat, as a digestif, paired with cheese, or even incorporated into a delightful after-dinner cocktail.

Order your bottle of Domaine Dupont 17 Year Old Calvados today from The General Wine Company and embark on a journey of flavour discovery.