Manoir de Montreuil is a collaboration between Charles Neal, a renowned importer, and Patrice Giard, a seasoned calvados producer. Giard's beautiful orchards in the Pays d'Auge, filled with cows, supply the apples for this project. These apples, which are distilled twice using a traditional Alembic still, consist of older varieties that may not produce much juice but are chosen for their complexity, showcasing the dedication and passion involved. The Montreuil label offers a fruit-forward style compared to Giard's classic line. The Domaine de Montreuil Reserve Calvados du Pays D'Auge is made with extremely ripe fallen apples of varying types, resulting in a spirit that captures the intricacies of the fruit. The cider is fermented sur lie and aged in a large barrel for a year, then double-distilled and aged in well-seasoned casks. This bottling combines barrels with an average age of seven years, blending youthful apple aromas and flavors with hints of vanilla, smoke, and baking spices. It serves as a perfect introduction to Calvados, the pride of Normandy. Manoir de Montreuil's Reserve offers a succulent freshness of apple, with a lingering finish of French vanilla and clover honey. It retains a rustic touch reminiscent of Calvados' historical roots, and the higher alcohol content adds depth and richness to the brandy.