The Roger Groult 1955 Vieux Calvados 15 Years Old stands as a pinnacle of traditional French crafting and distilling expertise, offering a rare glimpse into the storied past of apple brandy production. This exquisite Calvados, with an ABV of 41%, emerges from the fertile regions of Normandy, France, a locale renowned for its distinctive and richly flavored apples, which form the bedrock of this revered spirit.
Distilled in the year 1955, this particular vintage has patiently matured for 15 years, allowing it to develop a complex bouquet and a profound depth of flavor. The large format bottling size of 2.5 liters not only promises prolonged enjoyment but also signifies its rarity and exceptional nature as a collector's item. Entrusted to the capable hands of the esteemed Roger Groult – a name synonymous with quality and tradition in Calvados production – the spirit reflects both the heritage and the passion inherent to the region's apple orchards and distilling practices.
**Roger Groult** stands as an iconic name in the world of Calvados, with the distillery's roots reaching deep into the 19th century. The Groult distillery, located in the Pays D'Auge, gains acclaim not just from the calibre of its spirits but also from its adherence to time-honored methods. Utilizing traditional copper stills and aging their spirits in seasoned oak barrels, the Groult family has consistently produced Calvados that are celebrated for their nuanced flavors and refined character.
The 1955 vintage was precisely distilled using the customary methods that is central to Roger Groult's philosophy. The apples, harvested from heirloom orchards, undergo a natural fermentation process, free from artificial yeasts, which preserve the purity of the fruit's flavor. Post-fermentation, the cider is then distilled in ancient column stills, with the heart of the distillate matured in old oak casks to imbibe the Calvados with a gentle woodiness that complements, rather than overpowers, the natural apple characteristics.
This specific release from Roger Groult, imported by Sarzi Amadè, showcases the intricate balance between elegant sophistication and rustic charm that only a well-aged Calvados can offer. Its aroma carries hints of ripe apples with undertones of wood and subtle spices, while the palate is treated to a symphonic blend of sweet fruitiness cut through with vibrant acidity and enveloping warmth, trailing into a long, satisfying finish.
The designation 'Vieux' (Old) suggests not only an adherence to the standards of aging but also hints at the maintaining of an older, perhaps even traditional, style of Calvados production. Such spirits typically offer a more intricate and evolved tasting experience, particularly after 15 years of maturation, as is the case with this remarkable 1955 vintage.
What adds further allure to this Calvados is its packaging and presentation. The impressive 2.5-liter bottle permits not just ample tastings but also serves as a superb centerpiece and talking point for any spirits collection or during special occasions where discerning tastes are appreciated.
Collectors and connoisseurs of fine spirits will note the rarity of a Calvados such as this, with its vintage and limited bottling making it highly desirable. Roger Groult’s reputation for quality, alongside Sarzi Amadè’s role in bringing such unique expressions to market, ensures that this 1955 Vieux Calvados is not just a drink, but an experience to be savored, encapsulating the very essence of Normandy’s heritage and the artisanal prowess of its people.
This Calvados epitomizes the fusion of historical significance and contemporary appeal, making a bottle of Roger Groult 1955 Vieux Calvados 15 Years Old an exquisite addition to any serious spirits collection or as an extraordinary gift that radiates sophistication and appreciation for fine craftsmanship and heritage.
Please note: Due to the various ages of bottles and their seals, condition of liquid is at the buyer's discretion and no claim can be lodged against failure/leakage in transit. Please ensure that you undertake close up viewing/inspection prior to placing any bid. If you have questions beyond the offered description and images, please click 'Ask a question' to make a specific enquiry or to receive more in-depth condition report. Lots will be sold as seen and described.