This cognac is made from the grape varieties Folle Blanche, Colombard, and Ugniblanc. It comes from the vintages of 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011, from a single estate.
Generally, cognac is made from a single grape variety, Ugniblanc (which accounts for about 98% of the blend). Sometimes, different grape varieties are blended during the harvest or vinification to make wines. Less commonly, grape varieties are blended in eaux-de-vie, but this requires separately vinifying, distilling, and aging each grape variety.
We have tried both blending methods, but neither convinced us. Blending in wines gives dominance to Colombard, which is rustic and powerful. Blending in eaux-de-vie does not preserve the delicate aromas of Folle Blanche, as they disappear in favor of the other two grape varieties. So we imagined how the distillers of the past used to do it when their vineyards were rich in many grape varieties with different levels of ripeness, and they distilled with 3, 5, or 7-hectoliter stills. Unlike today's fashion, single grape varieties did not exist! Logically, they had to harvest and vinify according to ripeness, and launch the initial distillates based on their fermentations, by cask. Finally, they would blend these initial distillates (of grape varieties), usually around 28-38% ABV, and start the final distillations.
We have revived this historical method, which is more complex to implement than a simple single grape variety. Naturally, the percentage of grape varieties changes every year. The obtained eau-de-vie is then aged in barrels in our cellars, harvest after harvest, before the vintages are blended together.
On the nose, vibrant aromas of grapes, butter, and lime blossom honey. Smooth and soft texture, distinct notes of vine flower, apple, and initial spices. Beautiful freshness. A balanced and indulgent finish. The power of Colombard, the finesse of Folle Blanche, and the structure of Ugniblanc finally come together!
Gold Medal, World Spirits, San Francisco, 2020.