Blossom to bottle

This article first appeared in our Ethical Shopping issue of My Green Pod Magazine, distributed with The Guardian on 30 October 2020. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox

Made using nothing but real apples, water and time, Avallen Calvados is a traditional apple brandy produced under strict rules in Normandy, France.

Avallen was born when its creators, Steph and Tim, went on a quest to find the most sustainable spirit they could make. They considered the environmental impact of every spirit’s raw materials, and shunned grains, cane, agave and grapes in favour of apples.

Apples are at the heart of Avallen; 40 different varieties are used, from 300 different orchards in the heart of La Manche, Normandy. Avallen’s so proudly ‘apple-forward’ that even its labels are made from apples.

For every bottle of Avallen sold, €0.50 is donated to the UK’s Bumblebee Conservation Trust and other organisations that champion bee protection, the restoration of their habitats and the ban of harmful neonicotinoids.

Steph and Tim’s goal is to plant 10,000 flowering plants over the next three years through events, ‘beeboms’ and the restoration of wild meadows at the distillery.

Avallen’s delicious on its own or can be mixed in mouthwatering cocktails, highballs or a spritz.

Here is a selection of drinks created by the talented bee-keeping bartender Anya Lily Montague. The drinks showcase the versatility of Avallen whilst highlighting the company’s mission to save the bees – with a floral twist.

Jacques Rose

Crisp, tart, fruity

50ml Avallen Calvados
25ml lemon juice
15ml grenadine

Method: Shake & strain
Glass: Nic & Nora
Garnish: Purple pansy flower