Uncover the secrets of apple brandy at the Calvados Experience

Discover Normandy’s latest major attraction in Pont-l’Évêque in the Calvados département. Opened in 2018, this immersive museum is devoted to calvados apple brandy and the secrets of its production. It brilliantly combines audio, visual and multi-sensory effects to allow all visitors, young and old, an educational, enlightening glimpse into the culture of this traditional spirit, and Normandy’s history and culinary heritage.

A multi-sensory experience celebrating Calvados

Immerse yourself in the history of Calvados, Normandy’s native apple brandy. This high-end visitor attraction is housed in the former warehouses of the famous Père Magloire distillery, refurbished by Spirit France, the international drinks distributor.

Covering an area of 3,000sqm, this interactive one-hour tour guides visitors through the history of Normandy, from the Vikings to present days, and through the production of Calvados, starting with the simple apple. 

THE perfect introduction to Calvados

Throughout the tour, the visitor’s journey takes them through immersive settings. Step back in time in a typical pre-war Normandy village, complete with half-timbered cottages, farm and market place. Then stroll through apple trees in the orchard room, learn about the production process and step on apples in the apple press and fermentation room, before learning about the traditional art of distilling, ageing and blending. This is where all of the magic of Calvados happens.

SavourING CALVADOS

The tour culminates in a calvados tasting session, where an expert guides visitors through three distinct criteria: the appearance, the nose and the palate.  After learning how to view, smell, and savour calvados, you’ll be able to sip like a true calvados connoisseur! Open to all ages, there is also a tasty non-alcoholic alternative for under 18s; fresh Normandy organic apple juice.

DID YOU KNOW?

• 6,000,000 bottles of Calvados are produced every year
• Calvados has a reputation for being a high-end beverage in most international markets
• Calvados is the only spirit with a fruity taste, making it ideal for cocktails!