Half-Bottle of Rochelt Gravenstein Apple Eau-de-Vie - 2013

This 17th century apple variety originated in the royal gardens of Germany and has since thrived in the fluctuating climate of Styria in southern Austria. Grown to the distillery's exacting standards the fruit is harvested entirely by hand after multiple passes through the orchards and then fermented and distilled completely naturally without the addition of any additives or flavorings. The fresh brandy is then rested unfiltered at a natural strength for a minimum of nine years before bottling. Notes include edible flowers, cranberry, and an intensely earthy apple core coupled with a bright burst of fruit and crispy apple skins. A shape-shifting eau de vie that defies contemporary convention.