In the heart of Normandy, where apple orchards blanket rolling green hills, lies a place revered by spirits enthusiasts: Domaine Coeur de Lion, home to Christian Drouin, the world’s most celebrated Calvados producer.
This isn’t just a distillery – it’s where French tradition is distilled into pure craftsmanship.
A legacy of passion and precision
The story began in the 1960s, when Christian Drouin Sr., a businessman from Rouen, bought a farm in the Pays d’Auge, Normandy’s most prestigious Calvados-producing area. Fascinated by the region’s cider-making culture, he began distilling Calvados the traditional way. What started as a personal passion project soon evolved into one of France’s most respected names in spirits.
Today, his son Christian Drouin Jr. leads the family business, combining heritage with innovation. Under his guidance, the brand has achieved global recognition and is now beloved by sommeliers, bartenders, collectors, and connoisseurs around the world.
Craft in every detail
What sets Christian Drouin apart is the commitment to quality at every stage of production. More than 30 apple varieties are hand-harvested from organically farmed orchards. The juice ferments slowly to become cider, before being double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills, in line with the strict rules of the Pays d’Auge AOC.
But the true artistry is found in the ageing. Drouin uses a diverse selection of barrels – from ex-Cognac and sherry to port and even rum casks. Each contributes its own personality, resulting in Calvados with remarkable complexity: think baked apple, spice, oak, dried fruit, vanilla, and sometimes even a hint of smoke.
Award-winning and internationally loved
Christian Drouin is the most awarded Calvados producer in the world. Highlights include “Best Calvados Producer” at the International Spirits Challenge, and multiple gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
But beyond the awards, Drouin has earned a loyal following in cities like Paris, London, Tokyo and New York, where their bottles feature in top cocktail bars and fine restaurants. In Sweden, their Calvados is increasingly appreciated by wine bars and gastronomic venues that value craftsmanship and authenticity.
Tradition with a modern twist
Though deeply rooted in tradition, the Drouin family isn’t afraid to innovate. Their line of cask-finished Calvados – matured in barrels that once held Japanese umeshu, Scottish single malt, or Spanish oloroso sherry – has opened the door to a new generation of drinkers and mixologists.
For those new to Calvados, Christian Drouin offers a perfect entry point. For the seasoned enthusiast, it’s a reminder that this spirit deserves a place beside the world’s finest Cognacs and whiskies.
Editor’s picks: Where to start with Drouin
If you're curious to explore Christian Drouin, here are three bottles that show the depth and diversity of their craft:
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Christian Drouin VSOP – Smooth, fruity, and elegant. Ideal after dinner or in a refined cocktail.
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Christian Drouin XO – Aged, rich, and complex. Perfect for sipping and collecting.
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Carmina (Liqueur) – A Calvados-based apple and red fruit liqueur. Fresh, modern, and perfect for cocktails.
Christian Drouin doesn’t just make Calvados – they shape its future. Their bottles are more than spirits; they’re stories of Normandy, told through apples, oak, and time.
