The Calvados Fruit Cup (Cup No. 13) offers a delightful and refined take on the traditional fruit cup cocktail. This version, which substitutes the usual gin or other base spirits with Calvados, a type of apple brandy from Normandy, France, brings a unique depth and complexity to this refreshing drink. It’s a sophisticated option for those looking to explore beyond the standard summer coolers.
What is a Fruit Cup?
Fruit cups are essentially the Victorian era equivalent of today’s summer cocktails. These drinks traditionally combine a base spirit, liqueurs, fruits, spices, and a fizzy mixer, often served in a tall glass over ice and garnished with an assortment of fresh fruits and herbs. The Pimm’s Cup, with its gin base, is probably the most well known example, but the category has expanded to include versions using many different spirits. Originally, fruit cups were homemade beverages enjoyed at home, but now pre-mixed versions like Pimm’s are common, and there are also many recipes for homemade versions using different types of liquor.
The Calvados Difference
While many fruit cups use gin as their base, the Calvados Fruit Cup stands out by using Calvados brandy. This switch elevates the drink with the nuanced apple notes of Calvados, which can range from crisp and fruity to rich and complex depending on its age and production.
Why Calvados?
Calvados provides a depth of flavor not found in other spirits, adding layers of fruit, spice, and oak to the cocktail. The apple brandy’s profile allows it to complement the other ingredients, resulting in a well-balanced and intriguing drink. Different types of Calvados may lead to subtle variations in the final product. For instance, Calvados Pays d’Auge is known for its complex flavor profiles with notes of cinnamon, apple pie, and toffee.
Calvados Fruit Cup Recipe (Difford’s Cup No. 13)
The recipe for the Calvados Fruit Cup, often referred to as Difford’s Cup No. 13, uses a blend of complementary flavors:
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Calvados
- 25 ml Orange Curaçao
- 25 ml Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
- Top with Ginger Ale
- Garnish: Lemon slices, orange slices, strawberry slices, mint sprig, and borage (optional)
Instructions:
- Chill Your Glass: Start by chilling a Collins glass, or other tall glass. This helps keep the drink cool for longer.
- Prepare the Garnish: Slice the citrus and strawberries and have the mint sprigs ready.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the Calvados, Orange Curaçao, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters into the glass.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass halfway with ice.
- Add Partial Garnish: Add a citrus slice and a couple of mint leaves to the drink.
- Top with Ice and Ginger Ale: Fill the glass to the brim with ice and top with ginger ale.
- Finish with Garnish: Add the rest of the garnish to the top of the glass.
Tips for Success:
- Freshness: Use fresh fruit for the garnish to enhance the visual appeal and the overall flavor of the cocktail.
- Ice: Use plenty of ice to keep the drink well-chilled.
- Calvados Choice: The quality of Calvados greatly affects the taste of the cocktail. Opt for a good quality brand, such as Domaine Dupont VSOP, Christian Drouin XO, or Avallen Calvados.
- Mixer Options: While ginger ale is typical, you can experiment with other mixers like ginger beer or even a splash of cola for a twist.
Variations on the Theme
There are several ways to customize a Calvados Fruit Cup. Some variations include:
- Using different liqueurs: Try substituting the Orange Curaçao with other citrus liqueurs like Cointreau or even a fruit-based liqueur like elderflower.
- Experimenting with bitters: While aromatic bitters are standard, try different types like orange or grapefruit bitters for a unique twist.
- Adding a splash of fruit juice: A touch of apple or cranberry juice can add a new layer of flavor.
- Rye Whiskey Inspiration: Some recipes draw inspiration from the Rye Whiskey Fruit Cup, combining Calvados with Cointreau, sweet vermouth, aromatic bitters, and topping with a mix of ginger ale and cola.
The History of Fruit Cup Cocktails
Fruit cups trace their origins back to Victorian-era England, where they were initially created as homemade concoctions, mixing various spirits, fruits, and spices. James Pimm, is often credited with creating the most famous pre-mixed fruit cup brand, Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, first serving it in his Oyster Warehouse in London around 1840. Pimm’s original recipe, a gin-based liqueur with herbs, spices, fruit, and quinine, was intended to aid digestion. The secrecy surrounding the exact recipe of Pimm’s has added to its allure, with only a handful of people said to know it.
The popularity of fruit cups like Pimm’s has endured, becoming a summer staple not only in the UK but also in other parts of the world, including the American South. Today, fruit cups are often associated with leisurely summer afternoons and festive gatherings.
Calvados Brands to Consider
Selecting the right Calvados is key to making a great Calvados Fruit Cup. Here are a few brands worth considering:
- Domaine Dupont VSOP: Known for its apple-forward profile, this Calvados is a beautiful example of the Pays d’Auge style.
- Christian Drouin XO: This Calvados is highly recommended for cocktails due to its balanced and complex profile.
- Avallen Calvados: A modern and well-regarded option, Avallen brings a fresh energy to the Calvados category.
- Père Magloire: A solid option, especially their VSOP, and it is a good value choice.
- Boulard Calvados: Another excellent option, this brand offers a variety of high-quality Calvados perfect for cocktails or sipping.
Conclusion
The Calvados Fruit Cup provides a sophisticated and refreshing alternative to traditional summer cocktails. Its unique flavor profile, derived from Calvados apple brandy, sets it apart from other fruit cups, making it an ideal choice for those seeking something a bit different. The Calvados Fruit Cup is not only a delicious cocktail, it also represents a bridge between history and modern mixology, offering a taste of the past with a contemporary twist. Whether you’re relaxing on a warm afternoon or entertaining guests, this cocktail is sure to impress.
