Nose: Hot alcohol notes hit first, followed by a sharp sweetness with some oak and apple notes.

Taste: Oak dominates, showing vanilla and tannins. A slightly sweet middle where the barest hint of apple peeks through, followed by a mildly astringent finish.

(Dilute)

Nose: Very sweet, some earthiness and a lot more apple.

Taste: More balanced overall. A mild apple flavour is present throughout, and subtle notes of leaf mould and maple are detectable.

Overall: Smooth and drinkable brandy with a light apple taste. A couple of drops of water really helps open it up.

Nose: Sweet apple, with some solventy notes.

Taste: Dry, with light apple notes and fairly minimal oak influence. Medium length finish is mainly dry oak.

(Waiter? No, water.)

Nose: Apple is much richer, and the spirity bite is less intrusive.

Taste: Sweeter, some floral overtones.

Overall: Drinkable, but not outstanding. Fresher apple taste than most French apple brandies.