What is Pommeau? 

Pommeau is a fortified apple cider product traditionally made in Northern France. Pommeau is made by blending fresh apple must (juice) with apple brandy (Calvados in Normandy, France; Lambig in Brittany, France), then barrel aging it for an extended time - typically 3-5 years or more. The result is an apéritif that is sweet, rich in bittersweet apple and barrel characteristics, and high in alcohol (normally 16-18% alcohol by volume or higher). Best enjoyed an ounce or two at a time, typically before or after dinner. 

The high alcohol content of the brandy prevents the sugars in the fresh apple juice from fermenting. As a result, pommeau retains a higher level of sweetness than a fermented hard cider otherwise would, which in turn amplifies the fruit qualities of the apple. French ciders (and therefore pommeau) are typically made with a blend of bittersweet and bittersharp apple varieties that have a complex flavor profile relative to common eating apples. They also have higher levels of tannins and/or acidity. 

Pommeau pairs exceptionally well with creamy cheeses, or with chocolate and other rich desserts. Great on it's own as a dessert! 

Stored in cool cellars or in your refrigerator, an open bottle of pommeau will age exceptionally well for years. That is, if you're able to refrain from enjoying it all! 

Pommeau's origin are in Northwestern France - both Normandy and Brittany have their own traditions around pommeau production. Cider makers worldwide, especially in the United States, are making very delicious interpretations of pommeau.

We carry a wide variety of pommeau products, to explore more than just the handful of pommeau de normandie options we can get our hands on, check out this collection here. 

What is Pommeau de Normandie? 

Pommeau de Normandie AOC is a pommeau product made under the protected standards for quality and production of the appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC). In order for a product to be labeled as a Pommeau de Normandie, it must be produced locally using fruit from the region, and must meet quality standards.