Expérimental de Christian Drouin "Foursquare Angels" 19 yrs Batch #8 Pays d'Auge

Tasting Notes from the Curator

The Expérimental de Christian Drouin “Foursquare Angels” 19 yrs Batch #8 exuberantly showcases its intricate tapestry of aromas and flavors. At its aromatic core, the scent is saturated with a bouquet of dried fruits, with sun-dried apples and figs swirling amid gentle envelopes of tropical nuances like pineapples and ripe bananas. These picturesque harmonies are seasoned by a finely etched edge of spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, while caramel warmth rounds out the nose with a deep, inviting sweetness.

The flavor profile is equally layered, opening with a silky touch of vanilla that seamlessly blends with oak’s subtle tannins, creating a delightful and structured backdrop. This is swiftly followed by nostalgia-inducing notes of cooked apples and ripe pears - classic pavlovas in a bottle, while teasing hints of creamy almond enrich the palate’s texture. The interplay of caramelized pineapple and gentle tropical whispers (think of mango and passion fruit) gifts a proportional complexity that feels both comforting and exhilarating.

Texturally, the Foursquare Angels slips gracefully across the tongue with a fullness that is both richly opulent and cheekily sublime. Its finish is a lingering, delicate ballet of flavors that continue to proffer hints of its luxuriant march across time and taste, leaving an everlasting impression that marks it as particularly distinct within the canonical realm of aged Calvados.

Pairings & Suggestions

Expertly Paired Culinary Sensations:
To experience the Expérimental de Christian Drouin “Foursquare Angels” in its full essence, one should ideally pair it with dishes that accentuate its rich and diverse flavor profile.

• Dessert Delights: Complement the warm caramel and tropical fruit notes by serving with dark chocolate mousse, a delectable apple tart, or a silky crème brûlée.
• Savory Entrées: The complex aromas resonate beautifully with grilled lamb chops marinated in rosemary and garlic, bringing out the spirit’s depth with their smoky flavors. A cheese platter featuring aged varieties like Comté or a selection of charcuterie can also serve as an exceptional accompaniment.
• Creative Cocktails: The Foursquare Angels can be the star in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or imbued in a Sour Cocktail, enhancing with its intricate depth.

  A Cross-Continental Spirit Symphony

The allure of the Expérimental de Christian Drouin “Foursquare Angels” lies not only in its complex symphony of flavors but also in its pioneering journey of craft and collaboration. This spirit is the fruit of a remarkable cross-continental partnership between Christian Drouin, a venerable name in Calvados, and the esteemed Foursquare Distillery of Barbados, known for crafting premium rum. This collaboration embodies a marriage between the old-world elegance of Normandy’s Pays d’Auge and the vibrant, characterful spirit from the Caribbean.

The narrative of Foursquare Angels, matured for 19 magnificent years, with the final refinement influenced by 17 months in Foursquare rum casks, speaks of a radical exploration within the art of distillation. What emerges is a spirit that dances across the senses, a journey from the lush apple orchards of Normandy to the sunlit tropical fields of Barbados, connecting these culturally rich destinations through an ethical and empathetic dialogue in spirit creation. Its limited edition status means each bottle is both a tasteful indulgence and a treasured artifact, cherished by those fortunate enough to possess it.

Storage Instructions

To preserve the exquisite qualities of the Foursquare Angels, store it upright in a cool, dark place at a stable temperature between 15°C-20°C (59°F-68°F). Avoid exposure to sunlight and fluctuating temperatures to maintain its refined character.