As a bartender, I've had the pleasure of mixing up a wide variety of drinks for my customers. One spirit that I've come to appreciate more and more over the years is Calvados.
This French apple brandy has a unique flavor profile that can add depth and complexity to any cocktail.
What makes Calvados so special is the way it's made. Unlike other brandies, which are typically distilled from grapes, Calvados is made from apples.
The apples are harvested in the fall and pressed into juice, which is then fermented and distilled. The resulting spirit is aged in oak barrels, giving it a rich and complex flavor that's perfect for mixing into cocktails.
One of the things I love most about Calvados is its versatility. It can be used in a wide range of cocktails, from classic drinks like the Old Fashioned to more modern creations like the Applejack Sour.
Whether you're looking for something sweet and fruity or bold and complex, there's a Calvados cocktail out there for you.
In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite Calvados cocktail recipes, along with tips on how to make them perfectly every time.
So whether you're a seasoned bartender or just looking to try something new, read on to discover the best Calvados cocktails around.
1. The Normandy Flower
"The Normandy Flower" is a refreshing and floral Calvados cocktail that is perfect for spring. Made with Boulard Calvados, St. Germain Elderflower Liquor, tonic water, and a splash of fresh squeezed lemon juice, this cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors.
The layered mellow flavors of Boulard Calvados make it a perfect ingredient for mixing in cocktails. The addition of St. Germain adds a sweet and floral note to the drink, making it perfect for a warm spring evening. If you're looking for a new and refreshing Calvados cocktail, "The Normandy Flower" is definitely worth a try.
2. Calvados Sour
The Calvados Sour is a delightful twist on the classic sour cocktail. Made with Calvados, an apple brandy from Normandy, France, this cocktail has a lovely balance of flavors including apple, citrus, and a hint of spice.
It's perfect for the autumn season and can be easily customized with different sweeteners like maple syrup or infused syrups. Optional additions like egg white and bitters add texture and depth to the drink. Overall, the Calvados Sour is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail.
3. The Normand Fizz
If you're a fan of apple-based cocktails, then "The Normand Fizz" is definitely worth trying. This Calvados cocktail recipe is perfect for fall and features a combination of tart apples, ginger, and Calvados. The drink is simultaneously cool and warm, sweet and spicy, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a complex flavor profile.
The use of muddled tart apples adds a delicate flavor to the drink, while the ginger infused simple syrup provides a spicy kick. The Calvados used in the recipe creates a robust drink that enhances the apple's aromas and gives an autumnal character to the cocktail. Overall, "The Normand Fizz" is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique Calvados cocktail recipe.
4. Cranberry Calvados Cocktail
The Cranberry Calvados Cocktail is a warm and festive drink made with Calvados, an apple brandy from Normandy, France, and infused with whole cranberries, lemon slices, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks. The mixture is chilled for 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and mellow the alcohol.
When served, it's warmed up and garnished with cranberries, apple slices, and a cinnamon stick. The result is a dangerously delicious drink with a smooth, apple and floral-forward flavor that perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a holiday party.
5. Appletini
The Appletini cocktail is a classic sweet and sour cocktail with a subtle kick and a neon green appearance. It was created over 20 years ago and became so popular that it had to be removed from the menu, but quickly returned due to angry customers.
This version uses Calvados instead of apple schnapps and is a must-try for anyone looking for a sweet and sour cocktail with a subtle kick.
6. Caramel Apple Cocktail
The Caramel Apple Cocktail is a unique and creative take on the classic Candied Apples flavor combination. Made with freshly pressed Granny Smith apples, Caorunn Gin, Calvados, Verjus, and Orgeat Syrup, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. The highlight of this cocktail is the elaborate garnish made of spun sugar, which adds a fun and playful touch to the drink.
The caramel dressing on top of the spun sugar is the perfect finishing touch, adding a rich and decadent flavor to the cocktail. This is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves the flavors of caramel and apple, and is looking for a fun and unique cocktail experience.
7. Calvados Jack Rose
The Calvados Jack Rose is a classic cocktail made with apple brandy, grenadine, and citrus. It has been around since the early 1900s and has a fascinating history behind its name. The cocktail is traditionally made with American applejack, but the use of Calvados adds a refined touch to the drink.
The combination of lime juice and pomegranate creates a bright and fruity flavor that stands out. The ratio of ingredients can be adjusted to suit different tastes, making it a versatile cocktail. The Calvados Jack Rose is a must-try for anyone looking for a smooth and flavorful apple brandy cocktail.
8. Baileys Apple Pie Cocktail
Baileys Apple Pie Cocktail is a perfect drink to enjoy in the Fall and Winter months. This cocktail features Baileys Original Irish Cream, Calvados, Frangelico, apple cider, apple slices, cinnamon stick, whipped cream, caramel sauce, and ice.
It is a popular cocktail drink to serve at Thanksgiving or around the holidays at Christmas. You can even transform this cocktail into a dessert by adding two scoops of vanilla, caramel or cinnamon ginger ice cream. The unique blend of flavors in this cocktail makes it a must-try for anyone who loves sweet and creamy cocktails.
