Maison Sassy and Coupette launch Calvados
French cider producer Maison Sassy has teamed up with London bar Coupette to release two Calvados expressions.
Though Coupette has long had a focus on apple brandies, the creation of Calvados Fine and Calvados XO marks the first time the bar or the Normandy-based cider brand have produced their own bottlings. Andrei Marcu, Coupette's head bartender, said: "Coupette has always championed Calvados and we’re seeing a growing appetite for the spirit in customers and bars across the country. "It always delights me to see more and more interesting bottles of Calvados on back bars and cocktail menus." Calvados Fine is crafted with eau de vie which has spent two years in oak barrels for a 'complex and sophisticated' finish. The apple brandy presents flavours of fresh green apple on the nose, and is recommended used in cocktails or on its own over ice. Meanwhile, the Calvados XO has spent at least six years in French oak barrels. The spirit is said to be best served as a digestif or over ice, and provides notes of stewed apple, nutmeg and cocoa. "Flavour-focused spirits are set to be a big trend next year, and the distinctive balance of freshness and richness that Calvados provides is unmatchable," added Marcu. "We’re delighted to be working with Maison Sassy on this project whose family has supported the Calvados industry for decades." Calvados Fine and Calvados XO are currently being served at Coupette, located in Bethnal Green, and will become available to buy online from November 2021. Calvados brand Père Magloire recently revealed it will mark its 200th birthday with a week-long celebration of the category in the UK later this month.
