ABC (17%)

Christian Drouin's ABC, an exceptional French aperitif. For three generations, the Drouin family has been passionate about the cider apple, which it transforms in a variety of ways, through ranges of cider, Pommeau, Calvados and even Gin. Inspired by French knowledge of how to make vermouth, Guillaume Drouin looked for ways to transfer these production methods to the world of apples in the production of a new aperitif. After several years of experimentation and research, combining the production methods of Pommeau de Normandie and Vermouth, he created Christian Drouin's ABC, a Calvados-based aperitif.

The art of ABC production combines the blending of an apple must with a young calvados, ageing in oak casks, and flavouring with a bouquet of plants and spices, such as Quinquina, Armoise, cinnamon, orange, elderflower and Yuzu. Christian Drouin's ABC offers an intense bouquet of flavours, combining apple and spice aromas.

A look back at the creation of ABC by Christian Drouin

The beginnings of the project led by Guillaume Drouin. More than 5 years of work went into the creation of this new aperitif. Guillaume Drouin's initial vision was to apply vermouth production methods to Norman fruit: apples and pears. Initial trials with cider or perry were inconclusive, so it was finally the Normandy pommeau that inspired Drouin to create the ABC recipe. A Calvados blended with apple must and aged in oak barrels is used as the raw material. An initial selection of aromatic plants and spices is then used to enrich the bouquet.

A team effort linked to the world of bars

Drouin then decided to enlist the help of 7 barmen with extensive experience of using vermouth in cocktails to continue the creative work. Together, they worked on the choice and proportions of each spice and refined the recipe. The final touches were made in June 2023.

How to drink Christian Drouin's ABC is best enjoyed neat, chilled or in a cocktail.