The Whisky Jury Ferme de l'Autre Pacory Calvados Domfrontais 1987 #15 500ml

Crafted in the southern Normandy region of Domfrontais by the Pacory family at Ferme de l'Aître (Manoir de Durcet), this exceptional 1987 vintage expression embodies the unique pear-forward terroir of the Calvados Domfrontais AOC appellation. Unlike standard apple-dominated Calvados, Domfrontais rules require a minimum of 30% perry pears, though the Pacory family typically utilizes 60% to 80% heritage perry pears (poires à poiré) grown on high-stem (haut-tige) century-old trees alongside local cider apples. Distilled in 1987 using a traditional single-column copper continuous still typical of the Domfrontais region, this single cask (Cask #15) was aged for over three decades in seasoned oak casks. Selected and imported by independent bottler The Whisky Jury in collaboration with The Pear Connoisseur (from the succession of the late owner, Raymond Pacory), it was bottled at a natural cask strength without chill-filtration, added coloring, or dilution. The result is a profoundly complex spirit where bright pear acidity and orchard fruit intensity blend seamlessly with deep oak oxidation, rancio, dark honey, and gentle baking spices.

Food Pairing: Aged blue cheeses (Stilton, Gorgonzola Dolce, Roquefort), dark chocolate tarts, poached pears with dark chocolate drizzle, roasted duck breast with pear-cider glaze, or enjoyed alongside a fine cigar.

Tasting Notes: Clear, rich golden-amber in appearance with brilliant copper highlights, a viscous full body, and long, slow-descending legs.

Nose: Intensely aromatic, complex, and fruit-rich, opening with poached pears, baked yellow apples, and orange marmalade, accompanied by beeswax, toasted oak, leather, dark honey, subtle pipe tobacco, and a fine rancio lift.

Palate: Sumptuous, concentrated, and mouth-filling, featuring sweet pear nectar, caramelized apple reduction, and dried apricots upfront before opening into soft oak tannins, dark cocoa, toasted almonds, cinnamon, and subtle clove.

Finish: Unending, warm, and highly refined with persistent lingering notes of stewed perry pears, subtle oak wood, dried fruit conserve, and an enduring, silky warmth.

Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature in a fine tulip glass or cognac snifter, allowed to rest for 10 to 15 minutes to fully open its three-decade vintage bouquet.