The Normandy

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed lime juice only; bottled lime juice muddies the delicate apple and herbal notes.
• Chill your glass in the freezer or with ice water before serving to maintain the cocktail's temperature longer.
• Slice the apple garnish thin and fresh; oxidation dulls the crisp appearance and flavor contribution.
• Measure ingredients precisely with a jigger—the balance of Calvados, Dubonnet, and cider is critical to the drink's character.

Substitutions

• Calvados → applejack or cognac (lighter, less apple-forward)
• Dubonnet → Lillet Blanc or sweet vermouth (drier, less herbal)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · jigger · bar spoon · fine strainer

What is Calvados and can I substitute it?

Calvados is an apple brandy from Normandy, France. If unavailable, use applejack or cognac, though the authentic apple character will differ.

Can I make The Normandy ahead of time?

Mix the drink fresh to order for best flavor. Pre-batch the spirit mixture (Calvados, Dubonnet, cider, lime) without ice and stir with ice just before serving.

What type of apple cider works best?

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider or a high-quality bottled cider. Avoid sweetened cider blends; opt for dry or semi-dry for balance.

How should I chill this cocktail?

Stir all ingredients with ice for 10-15 seconds until properly chilled, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

Is this cocktail sweet or dry?

The Normandy is balanced and lightly sweet, with the Dubonnet providing herbal notes and the lime juice adding brightness.