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La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil: A Normandy Spirit Journey

Discover the art of Calvados at Château du Breuil in Normandy: a historic distillery offering tours, tastings, and a sensory journey through French spirit-making tradition.

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Discover the enchanting world of Calvados at La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil, nestled in the heart of Normandy's Pays d'Auge. This historic château, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, is not only an architectural gem but also a prestigious distillery producing a range of exceptional spirits. Explore the estate's 28-hectare park with centuries-old trees, witness the Calvados production process from apple to spirit, and indulge in tastings of their renowned Calvados, Norman whiskies, and other spirits. With guided tours available in multiple languages and a captivating sound and light show, a visit to Château du Breuil offers a sensory journey through Normandy's rich heritage and distilling traditions. It's a perfect blend of history, culture, and the art of fine spirits, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the region. The on-site shop allows you to take home a piece of Normandy's spirit.

A brief summary to La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil

  • Monday 9 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Consider visiting during the apple harvest season (October-November) to witness the apple selection process firsthand.
  • Check the Château's website for special events, such as blending workshops or live music performances, to enhance your visit.
  • Opt for the 'Expert' tour for an in-depth exploration of the distillery and a chance to create your own Calvados blend.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Pont-l'Évêque to explore its charming town center and sample local cheeses.
  • Take advantage of the reduced 'low-carbon' rate by showing a train ticket to Pont-l'Évêque, a bus ticket to Le Breuil-en-Auge, or a photo of yourself with your bicycle in front of the Château.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Pont-l'Évêque, take the Réseau Nomad Car bus line 123 towards Lisieux. The bus departs from the 'PONT-L'EVEQUE - PONT-L'EVEQUE_Général Clémenceau' stop and arrives at the 'LE BREUIL-EN-AUGE - Jules grün' stop in Le Breuil-en-Auge. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) to La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil. Follow the D264 road, and the Château will be on your left. The bus journey takes about 11 minutes. Bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Pont-l'Évêque, a taxi or ride-sharing service (if available) is a convenient option. The journey to La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil is approximately 8 km and takes around 8 minutes. Expect to pay between €20-€25 for a taxi. Ride-sharing services may offer slightly lower fares, around €2, but availability can vary.

  • Driving

    If driving from Pont-l'Évêque, head south on the D677 towards Le Breuil-en-Auge. Continue onto D264. The Château du Breuil will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. The drive is approximately 8 km and takes about 8 minutes. Parking is free.

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Discover more about La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil

La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil, a jewel in the crown of Normandy's Pays d'Auge, invites you on an unforgettable journey through the world of fine spirits. Steeped in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this estate offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship. The château itself, a magnificent structure dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, stands as a testament to the region's rich architectural legacy. Listed as a historical monument, its elegant facade and meticulously maintained grounds evoke a sense of timeless beauty. Wander through the 28-hectare park, where ancient trees stand sentinel, their branches reaching towards the sky, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. But Château du Breuil is more than just a pretty face; it's a working distillery, where the time-honored tradition of Calvados production comes to life. Since 1954, the estate has been crafting exceptional spirits, using apples sourced from the surrounding orchards. The process begins with the careful selection of apple varieties, each chosen for its unique flavor profile. These apples are then transformed into cider, which is distilled twice in copper stills, a method that preserves the fruit's delicate aromas and flavors. The resulting Calvados is aged in oak barrels, where it develops its characteristic amber hue and complex character. The length of aging varies depending on the desired style, with some expressions spending decades in the cellars, slowly maturing into liquid gold. During a guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to witness this fascinating process firsthand, from the orchards to the stills to the aging cellars. The visitor experience at Château du Breuil is designed to engage all five senses. Guided tours, available in French, English, and other languages via audioguides, provide insights into the history of the estate, the Calvados-making process, and the nuances of each spirit. The tour culminates in a spectacular sound and light show within the aging cellars, where the magic of distillation is brought to life through a captivating display of visuals and sound. Of course, no visit to Château du Breuil would be complete without a tasting. Sample a range of their exceptional spirits, from the classic Calvados Pays d'Auge to innovative Norman whiskies, gins, and rums. Knowledgeable staff will guide you through the tasting, explaining the unique characteristics of each spirit and offering insights into the art of appreciation. Beyond the tours and tastings, Château du Breuil offers a range of other activities and experiences. Explore the estate's grounds at your leisure, discover hidden corners, and soak up the tranquility of the Normandy countryside. The on-site shop offers a wide selection of spirits and other local products, allowing you to take a piece of Normandy home with you. La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil is committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that its operations have minimal impact on the environment. The estate uses traditional methods of production, prioritizes local sourcing, and implements measures to reduce waste and conserve resources. Whether you're a seasoned spirits connoisseur or simply curious about Normandy's cultural heritage, a visit to La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil is an experience you won't soon forget. It's a chance to step back in time, immerse yourself in the world of fine spirits, and discover the magic of Normandy's Pays d'Auge. To make the most of your visit, consider these tips: * Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season. * Allow ample time to explore the estate's grounds and enjoy a leisurely tasting. * Check the website for special events and workshops. * Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. * Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the château and its surroundings. La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil is more than just a distillery; it's a destination that celebrates the art of craftsmanship, the beauty of nature, and the rich cultural heritage of Normandy. It's a place where tradition and innovation come together to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Opening hours are daily, except December 25th and January 1st, from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00. The last visit in the morning is at 11:00 and in the afternoon at 17:00.

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