Berneroy Calvados VSOP

Berneroy Calvados VSOP: A Rich Normandy Apple Brandy Experience

For centuries, Normandy in northern France has been renowned for its exquisite apples and the delectable brandy they produce – Calvados. Among the esteemed Calvados houses, Berneroy stands out for its commitment to tradition and exceptional quality. Their VSOP Calvados offers a delightful exploration of Normandy's finest apple flavours, aged to perfection for a smooth and captivating spirit.

A Legacy of Apple Expertise

The Berneroy family has been crafting Calvados for generations, meticulously selecting apples from the Pays d'Auge region, renowned for its ideal climate and soil conditions for cultivating these special fruits. Berneroy's VSOP uses a blend of apples, with a focus on bittersweet and bittersharp varieties that contribute depth and complexity to the final product.

Aged for Elegance: The Limousin Oak Influence

Following distillation, Berneroy's VSOP embarks on a transformative journey in Limousin oak casks. These meticulously crafted barrels, sourced from France's Limousin forests, impart a spectrum of subtle yet significant flavours to the young Calvados. The oak tannins add structure and a touch of spice, while the gentle toasting releases hints of vanilla, caramel, and toasted almonds. The minimum ageing requirement for VSOP Calvados is four years, but Berneroy takes it a step further, allowing the spirit to mature for around eight years. This extended ageing period allows the flavours to meld seamlessly, resulting in a wonderfully balanced and sophisticated Calvados.

Tasting Berneroy Calvados VSOP: A Symphony of Apple and Oak

Nose: The initial aroma of Berneroy VSOP is an enticing invitation. Vibrant notes of fresh apples take centre stage, reminiscent of ripe orchard fruits, intertwined with hints of baked apple and apple pie. As the spirit opens up, subtle yet alluring hints of vanilla, baking spice (think cinnamon and nutmeg), and a touch of honey emerge. The oak influence is present but beautifully integrated, offering a whisper of caramel and toasted almond.

Palate: The first sip of Berneroy VSOP is a revelation. The texture is luxuriously smooth and rounded, with a well-balanced sweetness that is neither cloying nor harsh. The apple flavours from the nose translate beautifully, offering a delightful interplay between fresh and cooked apple notes. The oak influence becomes more apparent on the palate, adding a touch of spice and a pleasant tannic structure that gives the Calvados a satisfying weight. Hints of vanilla, honey, and spice dance in the background, creating a truly captivating taste experience.

Finish: The finish of Berneroy VSOP is long, lingering, and exceptionally pleasing. The apple flavours persist, slowly fading alongside the subtle oaky notes and hints of spice. The overall impression is one of elegance, refinement, and a lingering warmth that invites another sip.

Serving Suggestions to Unlock Berneroy VSOP's Potential

Berneroy VSOP is a versatile spirit, perfect for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or as a base for classic cocktails. Here are some suggestions to elevate your Calvados experience:

• Neat: This is the purist's choice, allowing you to appreciate the full complexity of Berneroy VSOP. Serve it slightly chilled in a snifter glass to allow the aromas to develop.
• On the Rocks: A large ice cube slowly melts, releasing a touch of water that opens up the spirit's flavours further.
• Digestif: Berneroy VSOP is an exceptional digestif after a meal. Its warming properties and smooth finish aid digestion and provide a delightful conclusion to a culinary experience.
• Cheese Pairings: Berneroy VSOP pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses. Try it with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or with stronger cheeses like Roquefort or Comté. The sweetness of the Calvados cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful harmony of flavours.
• Cocktails: Berneroy VSOP adds a touch of sophistication to classic cocktails. Try a Calvados Sidecar, a French twist on the classic Sidecar, or a Normandy Sour, a refreshing take on the Whiskey Sour.

In Conclusion: A Refined Apple Brandy Experience

Berneroy VSOP Calvados is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the Berneroy family. This exceptional Calvados offers a captivating exploration of Normandy apples, aged to perfection in Limousin oak casks. With its vibrant apple flavours, subtle oak influence, and smooth, lingering finish, Berneroy VSOP is a perfect choice for Calvados enthusiasts and anyone seeking a truly refined apple brandy experience.