History

The name Claque-Pépin comes from a type of apple variety, which when ripe, rattles when shaken. The name translates to the seeds (pepin) which rattle (claque). The property is located in the Normandie region, nestled between the Domfrontais and the Pays d’Auge, in the 17th century farm next to the ancient chateau of Serans, formerly the family estate of the Louvet family.

Claque-Pépin officially began 13 years ago. However, current owner Benoît Louvet has been immersed in the world of distilling and ageing for many years. He began his “apprenticeship” fairly young with his grandfather Vital. After working for a few other Calvados producers as cellar master, he decided to start his own artisanal production and perpetuate the art of making Calvados, cider, and traditional apéritifs, while respecting the Normand tradition and the environment. 

The Cider

The cultivation of the cider apple stems from the equal respect for tradition and the ecosystem. The cider trees, with their shapely, tall branches and deep roots reflect these ideals. 

Cider is primarily a matter of terroir, the soil which gives its particular character to the apples and the product.

A good cider is also a fruit; the apples bring the richness of their aroma and flavors to the cider.

A great cider is an expression of skill: a multi-generational knowledge passed down by those who first cultivated the land and who bequeathed their knowledge of apples and cider-making to today’s generation.