You may already be a fan of hard apple cider, but did you know that Applejack and Apple Brandy actually pack a harder punch? Both Applejack and Apple Brandy are distilled using 100% apples–either the whole fruit or just the juice. But what is the difference between these two liquors and how did they get their names? Let’s break it down for you so you’re ready to enjoy your favorite apple liquors this fall.
The Difference between Applejack and Apple Brandy
So what is the difference? Nothing. They are technically the same type of liquor. It’s like soda vs. pop–they are the same, but each variety has its unique qualities.
What is Apple Brandy?
Apple Brandy comes from France. The most common Apple Brandy is called Calvados, which is the Normandy region of France where the liquor originated. Calvados is typically made with cider apples, but it can also be made with pears grown in the same region.
Calvados can be distilled with a continuous column still (similar to Armagnac) or double distilled in a copper pot just like cognac. The mixture is then aged in new French Oak barrels, but is often transferred to older casks after a few months to stop the wood from dominating the flavor.
What is Applejack?
Unlike its French cousin, Applejack is a truly American liquor. Applejack gets its name from the apples (of course), but also from the jacking process. Jacking, or freeze distillation, involves freezing the hard cider and removing the ice (frozen water) from the mixture, which increases the alcohol content. The more ice removed, the higher the alcohol content, which makes Applejack much stronger than hard cider.
Most Applejack today is produced using traditional distillation methods instead of the jacking process, however the name Applejack continues and will always be associated with this traditional American liquor.
How Do Apple Brandy and Applejack Taste?
Apple Brandy and Applejack taste very similar. Each distillery and orchard adds its own unique flavors through the distillation and aging process. However, Applejack traditionally has had a sweeter taste due to the apple varieties grown in the United states compared to those grown in France. Additionally, Applejack is often aged in Bourbon barrels, giving it flavors of burnt caramel, vanilla, and spice.
Aging time also factors into the taste. Older vintages tend to be designed as sippers, whereas newer vintages are often mixed into co*cktails. This is especially true for Applejack, which typically has higher ABV than Apple Brandy.
Check out some of our favorite Applejack co*cktails!
Applejack & Apple Brandy Popularity
Applejack and Apple Brandy have gone through difficult times in the last 70 years–many people in the United States turned their back on brown liquors during the mid-20th century. But luckily this is all changing. Applejack is making a strong surge in the US where distilleries are focusing on local and traditional liquors. As the leaves start to fall and the cooler weather sets in, Applejack is the new go-to liquor for autumn. Pick up a bottle today!
