Coming off the back of Thanksgiving on the 22nd of November we were feeling very thankful at Elysium Towers this week. Reflecting in the glory of an utterly fabulous year for the discerning gent’s drinks cabinet, we looked back at a mightily impressive collection of spirits, liqueurs and wines. Well we’re about to add another, and this one has a distinct American feel to it. This week we welcome Laird’s Rare Apple Brandy 12 Year Old to your collection.
This brandy is the finest, most elegant expression from the Laird Apple production line and has true old-fashioned Americano all over it. From America’s first commercial distillery, including license #1, Apple Brandy was born. It’s essentially the American version of the French Calvados and Laird’s has been producing this, along with the staple Applejack (hard cider) for over 300 years. Laird’s Applejack is not just tied into American brandy; it’s tied into American history.
The aged barrels used in this limited release brandy are again tasted to select only the finest available. With the inception of the idea for Apple Brandy it was agreed that 88 proof was the optimum level to showcase the rich and complex flavours of this spirit. After ageing in almost slumber-like state for a minimum of 12 years in the New Jersey warehouse it’s ready to be charcoal-filtered before being bottled. Each bottle is numbered by hand just as they were three centuries ago.
What’s the best way to enjoy Laird’s Rare Apple Brandy? Well firstly you’re going to need a few friends over. After a hearty meal together this brandy should be unveiled and served up in proper brandy glasses, or brandy sniffers as they are known by the experts. At room temperature the brandy should give off a wonderfully intense woody aroma much like a whisky. On the palette you get a smooth and lightly sweet apple flavour that complements the vanilla, cinnamon, and oak wood character from the ageing — almost giving you a rich and intense version of apple pie. Now who doesn’t like apple pie?! The finish is warming without being overly hot – just what you need on cold autumn and winter days.
Laird’s Rare Apple Brandy is bottled at 44% ABV and available in 70cl bottles from The Drinks Shop RRP £85.75
For more information about Laird’s Rare Apple Brandy, visit www.lairdandcompany.com