Michel Huard 2004 19yo 40%

Another Huard on Hors d’Age, but not the same decade. I’m always impressed by the freshness of this single-distilled estate, so needless to say, I’ve got high expectations for this one. 

Colour: Amber, gold lights. Heavy irregular tears.

Nose: Heady floral notes at first, on jasmine and orange blossom. More rustic than expected, with clear cider apple tones, but quickly followed by emerging rancio on nutty aromas. Light waxy shades in the background.

Palate: Smooth texture carrying ample fruitiness. Tinned pear and apricot jam. Pleasant bitter notes recalling NEIPA beer and orange zest marmalade. Broad floral expression on lychee and rosewater. A very delicate Calvados overall, quite unexpected both from a Calvados AOC (often more rustic) and from a 19yo spirit, where tannins and heavier rancio usually dominate.

Last notes: Lighter with air, becoming even more floral. Subtle honeyed tones. Strong aniseed and mentholated impressions. Fresh spices on white pepper and Sichuan pepper. The anise character confirms on the palate. Finish on lychee and verbena infusion.

A Calvados I genuinely love. I had tasted it a few years ago straight from the cask, but didn’t remember it being this refined. A beautiful surprise. Congrats JF, and cheers Loris!

My very subjective note: 89/100

Huard website