Lemorton Reserve, Calvados Domfrontais

Calvados (when people have even heard of it) is considered a classic apple brandy. In the Domfrontais appellation, however, a few things are different. The brandies are made by single distillation and must be at least 30% pear. Lemorton, the best of the Domfrontais, takes that even further with most of their Calvados, distilling a mash closer to 70% pear. It affects the final product in unexpected ways. The overall profile is still classic, but lighter, more elegant, and aromatic. Perhaps from the single distillation not "cleaning up" the flavors, I find it to have a character that is savory and herbaceous to go with all of that great fruit. Very dry, with anise, bitter almond, and orange oil all joining the pear and apple, and the oak hanging in the background: notes of caramel and honey roasted hazelnuts.