Normandin Mercier La Peraudiere Grande Champagne Cognac (500ml)

For decades, the Normandin Mercier family have been buying young cognacs from the same handful of producers in the crus of Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne only. The cognacs are made with about 90% Ugni Blanc, and 10% Colombard and Folle Blanche, a highly unusual ration compared to other houses. The cognacs are matured in the family chateau’s traditional cellars near the town of La Rochelle, the historic medieval port that made Cognac famous many centuries ago. The proximity of the ocean and the iodine air, the natural regulation of hygrometry and oceanic temperature are all said to favour the ageing process.

It's important to note that unlike many cognacs, Normandin-Mercier's contain no artificial colouring and are not subject to a cold filtration. This is in order to preserve a total purity of the aromas and flavours. This special release, Grande Champagne cognac was created to celebrate the house’s 150th anniversary.

Tasting note: [NB 46% Batch tasted] Bright burnished copper appearance. Opening scents of raisins, prunes and old liquorice. Second pass draws out gorgeous notes of orange peel and dried fruit (fig, apricot) with hints of clove. A delicate, medium dry entry builds into a concentrated cognac profile including dried fig, vanilla and a subtle black pepper note at the finish. Shows superb length, balance and purity. Remains dry and gently warming to the end with a subtle cigar box, cedar wood and cocoa aftertaste. Deeply satisfying.