Equipment
Ingredients
Main
- 55 ml calvados
- 115 ml tonic water, chilled
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition is estimated per serving. Nutrients without complete source data are omitted.
Full nutrition
- Calories
- 146 kcal
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 0 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
- Sugar
- 0 g
- Sodium
- 5 mg
- Calcium
- 3 mg
- Magnesium
- 1 mg
- Zinc
- 0.0 mg
- Water
- 115 g
Sources: Aggregated Public Data, USDA FoodData Central
Method
Pour the Calvados into a chilled highball glass.
Add the chilled tonic water to the glass.
Serve the drink immediately without ice or garnish.
Chef's Notes
- The quality of your Calvados will significantly impact the final flavor. Opt for a VSOP or XO for a smoother, more complex apple profile.
- Ensure both the Calvados and tonic water are well-chilled before mixing to maintain carbonation and prevent dilution.
- Resist the urge to stir vigorously, as this can dissipate the tonic's effervescence. A gentle lift with a bar spoon is sufficient.
- While traditionally served without garnish, a thin apple slice or a twist of lemon peel can add an aromatic dimension if desired.
Storage
Troubleshooting
Drink is lukewarm or lacks crispness
Cause: Ingredients or glass were not sufficiently chilled before assembly
Fix: Cannot be fixed without diluting the drink; do not add ice as it deviates from the recipe intent
Prevention: Store tonic water in the refrigerator and place the glass in the freezer for 10 minutes prior to use
Cultural Context
Calvados, an apple brandy from the Normandy region of France, is a cornerstone of French aperitif culture. Its inclusion in this highball transforms a simple tonic into a sophisticated drink, reflecting a tradition of using regional spirits to create refreshing beverages.










