G.E. Massenez Calvados Vieux
G.E. Massenez Calvados Vieux is Normandy apple brandy with the most famous presentation in the spirits world: a whole "Pomme Prisonnière" (prisoner apple) grown inside every bottle — the glass is slipped over the budding fruit on the branch, and the apple matures to full size trapped within. This 750mL bottle is 40% ABV (80 proof).
Distillerie Massenez has specialized in fruit eaux-de-vie since the 1870s in Urbeis, France. Their Calvados carries the "Vieux" designation — the Calvados AOC's category for apple brandy aged a minimum of three years in oak — giving it a rounder, more elegant profile than young Calvados. Traditionally served as a digestif, in the "trou normand" between courses, or poured over ice cream.
Tasting notes
Medium gold. Aromas of baked apple, apple-cinnamon, clove, pie crust, caramel, and a hint of yellow pear. The palate is dry, subtle, and elegant — baked apple and light caramel over soft oak — with a clean, fruity finish. Refined dryness throughout; serve slightly chilled.
Why buy it from Del Mesa Liquor
- The prisoner apple bottle — an unmatched gift and conversation piece
- Vieux-designated — minimum three years in oak per Calvados AOC rules
- Family fruit specialists since the 1870s
- A true Normandy digestif, not a flavored spirit
How to serve it
Slightly chilled, neat, after dinner — or theatrically, over vanilla ice cream.
Frequently asked questions
What is Calvados?
Apple brandy from Normandy, France, distilled from cider apples and aged in oak. "Vieux" marks extended aging — at least three years under AOC rules.
Is there really an apple inside the bottle?
Yes — a real apple grown inside the glass on the branch. It cannot be removed; the bottle is the presentation.