The Pomme d’Amour is an elegant mix of Calvados, fruity liqueur, and sparkling sekt — a drink that combines apple aromas with a subtle sweetness. Perfect for special occasions or as a refined aperitif. The combination of strawberry depth and the freshness of the sekt makes it a timeless classic that doesn’t require elaborate technique. Simple, yet charming.
And this is what you need for the Pomme d’Amour
3 cl Calvados (apple brandy)
1 cl Triple Sec (orange liqueur)
2 cl strawberry liqueur
6 cl dry sekt or Prosecco
What matters here
The trick lies in the Calvados: Use a high-quality apple brandy with at least 40 % vol., not too young. Young Calvados varieties can taste sharp, while aged bottlings bring a softer, rounder apple note. If the drink tastes too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice — this enhances the fruit aromas without destroying the character. Don’t just place the lemon slice in the glass: Pressing the peel briefly releases essential oils that intensify the drink’s aroma.
Variations
- Pomme d’Amour Royal — Replace the sekt with Champagne for extra elegance. Optionally add 0.5 cl Crème de Cassis to achieve a deeper berry note.
- Autumnal variation — Replace the strawberry liqueur with 1.5 cl pear liqueur and add a pinch of cinnamon. Top up with apple juice instead of sekt for a less sparkling version.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the Calvados with another fruit brandy?
Yes, but the taste will change significantly. Pear brandy or quince liqueur work well, while cherry brandy or plum brandy make the drink too dominant. Calvados remains the best choice for the typical apple note.
Why should the sekt be added only at the end?
The carbonation of the sekt dissipates quickly if it’s added too early. By carefully topping it up at the end, the drink stays fizzy longer, and the aromas blend more harmoniously.
Can I serve the drink with ice?
No, the Pomme d’Amour is traditionally served without ice to avoid diluting the aromas. If you prefer it colder, chill the glass beforehand with ice water.
