G.E. Massenez Calvados Vieux Prisoner Apple (75cl)

This is a Calvados Vieux, an apple brandy sold with a whole apple inside the bottle. The producers fit carafes onto the tree branches and slip the small, developing fruit inside, so the apple ripens within the glass. Known as the Prisoner Apple, it is also said to add to the flavour. The brandy is made by traditional methods, with only small adjustments for modern production. It is medium gold in colour. The nose offers apple and cinnamon, cloves, pie crust, caramel and a hint of yellow pear. The palate is dry, with a subtle, elegant echo of apple and cinnamon. Serve it lightly chilled as a digestif, over ice, or alongside baked apples.