2006 Raymond Ragnaud Folle Blanche Cognac (700ml)

The original Cognac varietal, Folle Blanche was abandoned after the phylloxera attacks at the end of the 19th century but small patches still exist. Ragnaud's expression is slightly leaner and less ripe than his Ugni Blanc vintages, yielding suggestions of semi-ripe canteloupe, pineapple pudding and fruit'n'nut chocolate, as well as slightly more tart, vibrant, grapey flavours echoed in a medium-bodied palate. It rounds out with a soft finish referencing wood-aged grappas: raisined, fruit-bread-like, spicy and medium long. 45% Alc./Vol.