Availability:
VSOP Cognac
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Bache Gabrielsen American Oak Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: Made using Ugni Blanc fruit from Fins Bois, this is a first of its kind Cognac: Initially matured in Limousin oak, for the final six months, Cellar Master Jean-Philippe Bergier selected Tennessee oak barrels for a finishing touch. You get some of the aromas associated with brandy such as raisin cake, prune and dried apricot, but compared to Bache's other VSOP, this is softer and rounder with more honey and vanilla input, while remaining nicely balanced. Light to medium bodied with an easy-drinking mouthfeel, it ends with cinnamon, clove, fig and just a little heat. Launched in tandem with Bache Gabrielsen's push into the US market - which seems fitting - it may get traction with Bourbon lovers. 40% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... Best Cognac at Spirits Innovation Awards / Cocktails Spirits France, 2017
Gold Medal at New York International Spirits Competition USA, 2017
Silver Medal at San Francisco World Spirits Competition USA, 2017
Very good, strong recommendation - 87 pts at Ultimate Spirits Challenge USA, 2017
Silver Medal at Cognac Masters Drinks Business London, 2017![Camus VSOP Borderies Cognac (700ml)]()
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Camus VSOP Borderies Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $134.99$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%A limited edition Cognac from the lesser known Borderies appellation, which Camus has been championing for some time. Tasting note: Dazzling bright amber gold appearance. Issues a floral perfume of dried fig, butterred fruit bread, peppercorns, cinnamon and cigar box. Easy on entry buidling to medium bodied, off-dry flavours of succulent fig, raisin slice and white pepper. Aftertaste nicely counterpoints the mid palate with balancing acidity and fine tannins. Dried fruits, vanilla and subtle spices persist, rounding off the Cognac in elegant fashion. Another winning Borderies expression. 40% Alc./Vol.![Deau VSOP Cognac (700ml)]()
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Deau VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 40%A 'Very Superior Old Pale' cognac assembled with eaux-de-vie from the finest terroirs of the Cognac region, aged for at least 4 years, but some elements of the blend are usually older. Distilled in the Moisans Distillery, overlooking the Charente River and crafted with Ugni Blanc grapes, it comes presented in a contemporary yet classic tasting bottle with a large stopper. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Topax color and sickly-sweet aromas of honey, apple juice, and clover. Not much flavor up front, a hint of sweetness, finishing into burnt caramel and oak, and alcohol bite. This spirit improves with a little time to open, showing a richer, more raisiny fragrance and a marzipan-like finish. Medium body. 85 points - wineenthusiast.com
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H by Hine VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 40%A blend of 20 Cognacs aged for a minimum of 4 years, from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne and the Petite Champagne regions of Cognac. 'H' was developed by Hine in response to bartender's requests for an inexpensive but highly aromatic Cognac for use in cocktails. To this end they've succeeded.
Tasting note: Burnished brassy / copper appearance. Straightforward bouquet with good intensity, offering scents of sweet leather, dried apricot and vanilla. A soft, light to medium bodied entry level VSOP with low-key dried apricot, vanillan oak and creme caramel flavours, remaining on the drier side. Ends light, thin, short. Reserve for cocktails.
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- Packaging may vary
Hennessy Privilege VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 40%In 1817, the future King George IV of England asked Hennessy to supply him with a “very superior, old and pale cognac”. By the end of the 19th century, V.S.O.P, as it had become known, had firmly established its reputation among the nobility. The product of a gradual blend of over 60 eaux de vie taken from the four leading vineyards in the Cognac region, V.S.O.P is slowly matured in old barrels from which most of the tannin has been extracted. Sip from a brandy balloon after warming between the palms. Try it with a Cohiba cigar. 40% alc./vol.
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- Nick's Import
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Jean Luc Pasquet L'Organic 7 Year Old Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%"The all-organic house of Jean Luc Pasquet Cognac is the epitome of the word 'artisan' in every essence of the meaning." - cognac-expert.com
A wonderful discovery, the Cognacs of father-son team, Jean Luc and Jean Pasquet, are equally a welcome relief in a market dominated by mass-marketed brands. Jean-Luc began working alongside his uncle Albert in 1971 on an estate from the Grande Champagne sub-region that had been in the family since 1730. Assuming full ownership in 1973, Jean-Luc's drive to express the most pure and distinctive expressions from Grande Champagne terroir led to the estate winning organic certification in 1998. Today the vineyard is majority planted with Ugni Blanc (76%), Montils (8%) and Folle Blanche (16%), the latter reintroduced in recognition of its ability to produce eaux de vie of great finesse. With traditional hand-harvests, viticultural and cellar practices, including indigenous yeasts and zero sulphur, this house is the epitome of the word 'artisan' in every sense of the meaning. If you are a brandy enthusiast, JLP should be on your radar as a leader in the quality and value stakes.
Produced from organically grown Ugni Blanc grapes, this VSOP equivalent is aged for a minimum of seven years (the minimum requirement is four). It delivers another superb Pasquet bouquet, this time with an emphasis on fruits and flowers, more-so orange blossom, mandarines, tangerines, raisins, ripe peaches and figs.... The sweetness is backed by light pepper and a little cinnamon. The palate is supple, wonderfully rounded and simply delicious - hints of triple sec, honey, fig, white peach and nectarine... Never quite a fruit bomb, rather graceful and elegant to finish, the final stages offering a perfect balance between orchard fruits and fined tuned astringency. Bravo Jean-Luc! 40% Alc./Vol.
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Martell VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 40%Other reviews... A lively, fruity and well-balanced Cognac with bright pops of cinnamon and cardamom winding into a long toffee finish. Light amber color, sweet and toasty vanilla and orange aromas.
94 points - wineenthusiast.com![2323213232_1.jpg]()
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Maxime Trijol Grande Champagne VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%A cut above many big brand XOs. Highest recommendation. Tasting note: Bronze gold in colour, this 100% Grande Champagne VSOP is finer and more elegant on the nose than Trijol's entry level equivalent. Leaning towards exotic notes of nectarine, white peach and cigar box, it's superbly harmonised in the mouth, showing great persistence, climaxing in a medley of dried figs, honey, dark chocolate, orange zest, white pepper and rancio. A refined, elegant VSOP that's as good (or better) than many big brand XOs. Highest recommendation. 40% Alc./Vol. Notes from the producer... Golden yellow. Vanilla, spice and some dried fruit on the initial aromas. Well-structured body with a light and elegant touch. Finishes well with a little tickle of fire from the spirit. 40% Alc./Vol.![489046151011_1.jpg]()
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Mery Melrose VSOP Organic Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 40%Méry Melrose is an independent artisan house established in 2012 by François and Janis Méry. The pair grow their own grapes organically and the labels are influenced by art found in the ancient caves of France. The VSOP was matured for at least four and a half years aging in new and used French oak casks. Tasting note: Amber to brassy gold. Lovely passion fruit and nectarine bouquet, so less pedestrian than the VS. After air, hints of marmalade, cigar box and rose petals. Very soft, well rounded cognac; Nectarine flavours are rounded off by oak shavings, cigar box and nicely integrated spices. Excellent balance. Fresh, Summery VSOP. 40% Alc./Vol.![1027671_1.jpg]()
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Paul Giraud VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$134. 99Bottle$1619.88 DozenABV: 40%The Giraud family have been growing grapes around France since 1650, yet only decided to produce Cognac under their own name in the 1980s. A long time associate of Giraud informed us "Giraud became frustrated selling his thirty-five year old cognacs to Remy-Martin. His cognac was destined to become a part of the blend, Louis XV [currently selling for around A$2000.] This was a very brave move during such times - he was one of the first to do so, but we are thankful he did, he paved the way for many more to come."
The VSOP is an eight year old expression produced from Ugni Blanc, Folle Blance and Colombard grapes grown on the Giraud family's vineyards located in the heart of Grande Champagne.Tasting note: Pale gold with pale straw hue. Ripe, lifted stone fruit aromas, in particular apricot and pear over some heavier dried fig scents with a touch of anise emerging. The light to medium bodied palate offers soft, semi sweet flavours of dried fruits with a touch of honey before turning dry. Very soft, smooth and gently warming mouthfeel. Peppery, spicy, cedary oak aftertaste with a subtle dried fig fade. A good lighter style. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews...soft aromas of clay, white grapes, and banana; aeration fails to further develop the bouquet, which is disappointing. Palate entry is medium-bodied, satiny and properly toffee-like; midpalate tastes include oak, sawdust, white raisins, figs and almonds. Ends well with good fruit-acid balance and elegance. 85-89 points. Very Good/Recommended - www.wineenthusiast.comsize>
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Ragnaud-Sabourin No.10 VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 41%The Ragnaud-Sabourin estate was established in 1850 by Gaston Briand, and became one of the first in the region to push for the establishment of recognised 'crus'. In 1941 a split took place in the Ragnaud family, and one brother, Raymond Ragnaud, set off on his own. The other brother, Marcel Ragnaud, went on to develop Ragnaud-Sabourin and establish its present reputation. Today the 33 hectare property in the Grande Champagne appellation is run by three descendants, from grandmother to granddaughter. 40% of the sales are realised in France with the remainder exported.
All Ragnaud Sabourin Cognacs are matured as vintages; there is no blending between years, no sweetening and no colouring. The labeling designates the minimum age of the Cognac contained in the bottle, though is more specific than most houses. Rather than the VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) designation alone (in which the youngest brandy must be aged for at least four years in cask), Ragnaud-Sabourin’s ‘No.10’ signifies a blend of cognacs at least 10 years old.
Tasting note: Deep gold colour. Lifted aroma with an initial burst of ripe peach and apricot. Brief aeration reveals hints of raisin, vanilla, cocoa and honey. An exceptionally soft, smooth entry builds to a medium bodied, semi sweet, juicy, dried apricot / dried fig profile with a spicy overlay adding depth. Finishes medium dry with an aftertaste of date, vanilla, cedary oak, with the delicate spices persisting. 41% Alc./Vol.
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Raymond Ragnaud Reserve VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Sometimes labelled as 'VSOP' and sometimes simply as 'Reserve', this seven year old is the broadest cognac in Ragnuad's collection offering a moderate aromatic lift that sweetens after brief air contact, as well as expansive, ripe, dried fruit flavours, including peach and fig, backed up by light acidity, cinnamon and vanilla. Don't look for complexity but it's a tasty, easy-going style to suit everyday quaffing or casual cocktails. 100% Grande Champagne. 40% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producer... Nose: Fruity and slightly woody nose with dried fruits. Palate: Beautiful texture, unctuous and velvety. This cognac is releasing delicious dried fruit notes such as apricot, peach with a lovely almond aftertaste. Length: Very long, complex and balanced eau-de-vie.
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Remy Martin VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Launched in 1927 and easily recognised by its frosted green bottle, Rémy Martin's VSOP contains hundreds of blend components ranging from four to twelve years in age. Classified as a 'Fine Champagne' cognac, fruit is sourced from the region's two best crus: Grand Champagne (55%) and Petit Champagne (45%). Ninety seven percent of the eaux-de-vie is distilled from Ugni Blanc, the remainder from Colombard and Folle Blanche.
Other reviews... Elegant nose of orange peel, pralines, vanilla bean, dried flowers, and dark chocolate. Semisweet and opulent on the palate, cocoa persists along with hints of Brazil nuts, sea salted caramel, and red berries before a structured, stately finish with fine-grained oak tannins and spice ensues. 94 points / Excellent, Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021
"Quite a bit of fruit and floral notes on the nose, which comes as no surprise given its age, or lack thereof. A touch of woody aromas and barrel spices, but predominantly focused on the sweet young fruit. The cognac starts off sweet and round, but does finish on the dry and spicy side and a touch boozy. This is one that would do just fine in a mixed drink or bringing to a holiday party to jump-start winter punches and egg nogs." - distiller.com
...Good value for money Fine Champagne. Colour: Dark honey with a plummy rim. Nose: An immediate hit of aeroplane glue transforms into egg yolk and ginger bread spice notes. Palate: Still quite alcoholic with some bitter elements confirming the spice and finishing with hints of green apple, spearmint and hazelnut. Comment: A beginner’s Cognac, best drunk as an accompaniment to a sweet, preferably chocolaty, dessert. - Franz Scheurer, AGT Wine Magazine, Cognac Tasting 2005.
Notes from Remy... Deep golden yellow in colour (old pale). Nose of vanilla, oak, and apricot jam, developing more intense floral, hazelnut, apricot notes. The aromas continue onto the smooth, medium weight palate. A pleasant harmony is achieved, ending with a warm lingering spirit finish, lasting 2 to 3 minutes. 40% Alc./Vol.
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Tesseron Composition Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $115.00$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%Tesseron's foray outside of the XO classification is a VSOP made using eaux-de-vie from Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. Bright aromas and flavours of prunes, dried apricots, fruit cake and dried figs make up this fruity, light to medium bodied, sweeter-styled cognac that balances out with warming hints of allspice and pepper. Lends itself to easy-drinking or quality cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The first non-XO-and-beyond release from the Tesseron family of Pontet-Canet fame, this is both a lovely sipping Cognac and a blue-chip base for a hedonistic Sidecar. All the Tesseron trademarks are here: prune, plum, vanilla and a long-lasting chocolate note on the finish. - decanter.com
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- Nick's Import
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Bache Gabrielsen VSOP Cognac (1000ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $99.99$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%Only slightly above the price you'd pay at Travel Retail stores, this blend of 80% Fins Bois and 20% Petite Champagne cognac made from 100% Ugni Blanc grapes was matured for seven years. Leaning towards a fruitier expression, try it in New Orleans-style cocktails. One litre format. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This golden-hued brandy offers an opulent bouquet of toasted oak, crushed lily petals, meringue, and orange balm. Soft and decidedly smooth, vanilla, toasted Brazil nut, and dried citrus marry well and endure on the palate. 95 points (Great Value) - 2022 ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE
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- Nick's Import
Courvoisier VSOP Cognac (1000ml)Cognac, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%Normally $85+ for 700ml, grab this full flavoured VSOP as a special 1 litre direct import! Aged up to 10 years, this carries the "Fins Champagne" designation because it comprises more than 50% of Grande Champagne grapes.
Other reviews... Deep amber and bright in the glass, look for cedar, vanilla bean and coconut accented by peach and a light violet note. It's light and silky, with a bracing flicker of alcohol heat.
92 points- wineenthusiast.comBrilliant amber color. Aromas of creme caramel, fruitcake, tangerine peels, almond sponge, and macerated fresh berries with a velvety, crisp, dryish medium body and a warming, medium-long swisher sweets and mace finish. A solid VSOP with big flavor and a lingering finish.
87 points Silver Medal - Highly Recommended - tastings.comGold Medal, 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Courvoisier cognac is famous world-wide for its unique Napoleonic connection, dating from 1811. It was then that Parisian Wine & Spirit Merchant Emmanuel Courvoisier began supplying the court of Emperor Napolean I. Following an aborted attempt to flee to the U.S., Napolean's stock of Cognac was discovered by British Naval officers on board the escape ship. The British were so impressed with the drink that it henceforth became known as the 'Emperors Cognac'. Its fame was further reinforced in 1869 when it was named 'Purveyor by Special Appointment to the Court of Napoleon III'. The House of Courvoisier was built and the silhouette of Napoleon graces every bottle to this day.
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Courvoisier VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%Created from a balance of fruit sourced from Grande and Petite Champagne and the Fins Bois, this classic Very Superior Old Pale has been aged for between 8 and 12 years in a selection of Troncais and Limousin oak.
Courvoisier is famous world-wide for its unique Napoleonic connection, dating from 1811. It was then that Parisian Wine & Spirit Merchant Emmanuel Courvoisier began supplying the court of Emperor Napolean I. Following an aborted attempt to flee to the U.S., Napolean's stock of Cognac was discovered by British Naval officers on board the escape ship. The British were so impressed with the drink that it henceforth became known as the 'Emperors Cognac'. Its fame was further reinforced in 1869 when it was named 'Purveyor by Special Appointment to the Court of Napoleon III'. The House of Courvoisier was built and the silhouette of Napoleon graces every bottle to this day. The Courvoisier range includes VS, VSOP, VSOP Exclusif, Napoleon, FCN, XO Imperial, Initiale Extra and L'Esprit de Courvoisier. (not all are currently available in Australia.)
Tasting note: Bright copper colour. Moderate aromas offer a subtle fusion of apricot, cinnamon and clove. Entry is soft and round with a gentle spicy warmth, building to a medium bodied, off-dry mid palate burst of stewed apricot, dried fig and spice. Excellent balance - up until the aftertaste which becomes caramel-like and overly sweet. Choice for casual cocktails.40% alc./vol.
...Dark amber color. Aromas of sweet baking spices, sarsaparilla, prunes, and sticky toffee pudding with a satiny, vibrant, fruity medium body and a smooth, complex, medium-long leather, glazed nuts, hints of baked brie, and pineapple upside down cake finish. A rich and nuanced VSOP Cognac that over-delivers for its category; highly recommended. 89 points - tastings.com
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- Nick's Import
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D'Usse VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $139.99$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 40%D’usse is a new brand from Baron Otard (owned by the Bacardi Group), intended as an extension into the American market, and so created to appeal to the American palate. Incorporating eaux-de-vie between four and eight years, aged in the cellars of France’s Château de Cognac, expect a full bodied style with touches of cinnamon and floral notes, almonds, subtle accents of honey and dried fruits. It comes handsomely packaged in a striking decanter featuring a gold-double-cross, combining medieval motifs with contemporary design. 40% Alc./Vol.![156446165477_1.jpg]()
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Frapin VSOP Grande Champagne Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 40%Tasting notes: Burnished copper. Offers deep yet slightly restrained and drier styled aromas of beeswax, leather, fruit cake and vanilla. Aeration adds suggestions of raisins and sweet spice. Light and elegant in the mouth with medium dry, toasty, dried fruit and cocoa-like flavours. Ends gently spicy with honey, vanilla and hints of cigar box in the fade. 40% Alc./Vol.![50165105111_1.jpg]()
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G.B. Fookes VSOP Fine Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $89.99$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 40%50% OFF. A ridiculous, never to be repeated offer on quality Cognac. Intending to introduce Cognac to a new and younger audience, Richard Wiggins has worked with a Cognac house to develop two blends under the G.B. Fookes label, bottling them locally. One is called 'Fine Cognac' and is a VSOP, the other is called 'Champagne Cognac', also a VSOP but sourced entirely from the two top growing regions (Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne, with an emphasis on the latter). In an effort to move away from what Wiggins' considers the 'old and stuffy' look of Cognac, both Fookes expressions are handsomely presented in elegant wooden birch tubes and tall, contemporary heavy-set bottles. Taste wise, they're good examples in their own right, but Cognac is also great in cocktails. Either will work in a simple 'Sidecar', where cognac is mixed with dry ginger and sometimes garnished with a wedge of lime. However for Summer, try a deliciously refreshing 'Cognac Julep' (use mint leaves, Cognac, sugar syrup and loads of ice). There are dozens of other cocktail options, and at these incredible prices you can certainly afford to experiment.Tasting note: Deep gold / honey colour. Lifted bouquet offers semi-sweet aromas of dried fig, candied orange, pipe tobacco and buttered fruit bread. Lighter styled with a relaxed entry; mid palate develops with dried fig/apricot, raisin loaf and orange peel freshness. Finish is gently spicy, warming. The aftertaste includes nuances of cinnamon, fig and cigar box. A well balanced VSOP with charm and presence. 40% Alc./Vol.
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G.B. Fookes VSOP Champagne Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCEReduced from $99.99$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 40%50% OFF Champagne Cognac. One chance only. Tasting note: A VSOP sourced entirely from the two top growing regions: Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne, with an emphasis on the latter. Bright coppery / russet gold. Subdued. Fails to budge intensity wise. Ample exposure finally builds appealing aromas of rock lollies, dates, sultanas, cigar box and menthol tobacco. A svelte textured, light to middle-weight delivery with flavours of honey, fig and cedary oak. Ends brisk, medium-fresh with subtle dried fig and hints of orange peel in the aftertaste. Nice easy drinking style. 40% Alc./Vol.![1027659_1.jpg]()
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Hine Rare VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 40%The House of Hine stands on the banks of the River Charente, deep in Cognac country. It is one of the oldest houses in Jarnac with over 250 years of history. Their VSOP 'Rare' is produced from over 25 Cognacs from both the Grand Champagne and Petit Champagne regions. In the latter, the slight difference in soils produces Cognacs close in style to Grande Champagne, but without the finesse. When Cognacs from the two appellations are blended, with at least half the Cognac coming from Grande Champagne, the result is permitted to be called "Fine Champagne Cognac".
Tasting note: Brassy gold colour. Mild, attractive scents include honey, ripe apricot and orange rind notes. With further aeration, a suggestion of liquorice bullets emerges. In the mouth, it begins soft, light and medium dry before a gentle spicy wave develops building depth, but an overall sense of lightness is maintained. Dried apricot, orange pith and vanilla flavours are nicely balanced with a refreshing, clean, dry finish. Delicately spiced, dried apricot and vanilla aftertaste. Very pleasant VSOP but lacks the power and persistence you would expect at the price point. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Mild, light aromas of tropical fruit and parchment. Palate entry displays a nut-like opening taste, then at midpalate there’s an expanding profile that includes oaky vanillin, young spirit and pear drop. Concludes austere and thin. 80-84 points Tasted 4/1/2004 - wineenthusiast.comsize>
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J.Normandin Mercier VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 40%Petite Champagne is generally considered Cognac's second most prestigious area. About twice the size of Grande Champagne, with around 16,000 hectares under vine, the soil here is still chalky, but it is a more compact and friable type known as Santonian chalk. This slight difference in soils means its cognacs are close in style to Grande Champagne, but without the finesse of the latter. If the two are blended, with at least half the cognac coming from Grande Champagne, the result is permitted to be called "Fine Champagne cognac".
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Jean Luc Pasquet Organic VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%A wonderful discovery, the Cognacs of Jean-Luc Pasquet are equally a welcome relief in a market dominated by mass-marketed brands, many of which seem to be suffering from a lack of freshness, excitement and value for money. Jean Luc began working alongside his uncle Albert in 1971 on an estate from the Grande Champagne sub-region that had been in the family since 1730.
Located south of the city of Cognac, between the rivers La Charente and Le Ne, covering 13000 Ha, the soils here are made of a thin top layer of limestone with a high calcareous content and Montmorillonite clays, resting on a base of porous chalk from the Cretaceous (campanien sub-period), acting as a buffer for water supply to the vineyards. Such edaphic parameters contribute to fruit quality by avoiding vine stress in warm weather, and at the same time, allowing excellent drainage in case of excessive rains. Thus Grande Champagne holds the potential for optimum flavour profiles to develop in the grapes (which usually fall within the floral spectrum) making it Cognac's most prized terroir; its vines yielding the subtlest, most fragrant Cognacs, and the ones that need the greatest maturation.
Assuming full ownership in 1973, Jean-Luc has continued the enterprise, now selling Cognac under his own name, ranging from 4 year old to 80 year old expressions from the inherited stocks, including the now extremely rare “Oncle Albert-Tres Vieux Cognac”. Jean-Luc’s drive to express the most pure and distinctive expressions from Grande Champagne terroir led to the conversion of the estate to organic viticulture, winning certification in 1998. Today the vineyard consists of single 7.5 Ha plot, majority planted with Ugni Blanc (76%), Montils (8%) and Folle Blanche (16%), the latter reintroduced in recognition of its ability to produce eaux de vie of great finesse. Traditional 100% hand-harvest is the norm, in line with viticultural and cellar practices. Sulphur is nowhere to be seen on this estate. If you are a brandy enthusiast, note - the below is not a normal price - also, this is a preliminary shipment so stocks are not expected to hold out beyond Christmas.
Tasting note: With a minimum age requirement of 4 years, this VSOP has spent over 6 in oak and exhibits a bright gold colour with a pale gold hue. Moderate aromas reveal scents of ripe apricot, dried fig, cedarwood & vanilla with a trace of dark chocolate lingering beneath. Very fresh and clean. A silky, soft palate entry delivers a supple, luscious mouth feel offering semi sweet flavours of stewed apricot, vanilla and spice. Pure, smooth, gently warming spirit. Excellent balance. Finishes dry with a long, subtle cedary oak, dried fig and creme brulee fade. A delicious VSOP that rewards the more time you take with it, & one without the pepperiness (or the price tag) found with equivalent bottlings from many big houses. 40% Alc./vol.
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Martell VSOP Cognac - Old BottlingCognac, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenA curio for the Cognac connoisseur. We reckon it to be from the 50s or 60s. It would be fascinating to taste this against current Martell stocks.
One bottle only to sell. Some label damage but seal in excellent condition. 1 pint 6 fluid ounces.![1501680111_1.jpg]()
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Maxime Trijol VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: Presents the same deep colour as the VS, but with more complexity on the nose: Dried figs, prunes, raisin cake and rum soaked tobacco follow in a silky, medium dry cognac; slightly lighter than the VS, but feels better integrated and offers better length. Sweet spice and oak close the finish. 40% Alc./Vol. Notes from the producer... Golden yellow. Fruity and floral on the nose and palate, with a long-lasting gaiety. The tannins from the oak have helped it to develop to the beginnings of maturity. A harmonious cognac. Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition![Naud VSOP Cognac (700ml)]()
- Nick's Import
Naud VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%You can't mistake the Naud cognacs with their striking presentation, referencing traditional distillation equipment. The VSOP is created using eaux-de-vie matured for at least four years and is a fuller style, with resemblances to sherry matured single malts. 40% Alc./Vol.
Silver Medal - 2018 The Cognac Masters (The Spirits Business)
![Remy Martin VSOP Cognac (700ml) - 1990s Bottling]()
Remy Martin VSOP Cognac (700ml) - 1990s BottlingCognac, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 40%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Launched in 1927 and easily recognised by its frosted green bottle, Rémy Martin's VSOP contains hundreds of blend components ranging from four to twelve years in age. Classified as a 'Fine Champagne' cognac, fruit is sourced from the region's two best crus: Grand Champagne (55%) and Petit Champagne (45%). Ninety seven percent of the eaux-de-vie is distilled from Ugni Blanc, the remainder from Colombard and Folle Blanche.Other reviews... Elegant nose of orange peel, pralines, vanilla bean, dried flowers, and dark chocolate. Semisweet and opulent on the palate, cocoa persists along with hints of Brazil nuts, sea salted caramel, and red berries before a structured, stately finish with fine-grained oak tannins and spice ensues. 94 points / Excellent, Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021
"Quite a bit of fruit and floral notes on the nose, which comes as no surprise given its age, or lack thereof. A touch of woody aromas and barrel spices, but predominantly focused on the sweet young fruit. The cognac starts off sweet and round, but does finish on the dry and spicy side and a touch boozy. This is one that would do just fine in a mixed drink or bringing to a holiday party to jump-start winter punches and egg nogs." - distiller.com
...Good value for money Fine Champagne. Colour: Dark honey with a plummy rim. Nose: An immediate hit of aeroplane glue transforms into egg yolk and ginger bread spice notes. Palate: Still quite alcoholic with some bitter elements confirming the spice and finishing with hints of green apple, spearmint and hazelnut. Comment: A beginner’s Cognac, best drunk as an accompaniment to a sweet, preferably chocolaty, dessert. - Franz Scheurer, AGT Wine Magazine, Cognac Tasting 2005.
Notes from Remy... Deep golden yellow in colour (old pale). Nose of vanilla, oak, and apricot jam, developing more intense floral, hazelnut, apricot notes. The aromas continue onto the smooth, medium weight palate. A pleasant harmony is achieved, ending with a warm lingering spirit finish, lasting 2 to 3 minutes. 40% Alc./Vol.
