Courvoisier V.S.O.P. Exclusif Cognac

Difford's Guide
Discerning Drinkers (1 rating)

alc./vol: 40%

Proof: 80°

Χρονιά: Non-vintage

Παλαίωση: No age statement

Χώρα παραγωγής: Product of France France

Exclusif is a blend of eaux-de-vie from all of the four top cognac regions: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne (6 to 10 years old), Fins Bois (minimum 5 years old) and around 20% Borderies (10 to 15 years old). Thus Exclusif has an average age of 7 to 12 years.

Launched in 1994, Exclusif was originally developed for the Asian market where cognac is drunk mixed with water. After experimentation, the folk at Courvoisier concluded that a 'mixing cognac' needed to be round, complex and altogether richer and somewhat spicier than is typical of a traditional cognac. Happily the result not only mixed well but also tasted great neat.

The Fins Bois develops much quicker and so is used younger than eau-de-vie from the other regions. While this reduces the average age of Exclusif it adds distinctive fruity, estery notes that are all apparent on the palate. But it is the inclusion of 20% Borderies that really sets Exclusif apart. While cognacs made from 100% Borderies can lack finesse, used in the right proportions in a blend, eau-de-vie from this region adds a smoothing roundness and delightful spicy floral notes. Finally Exclusif benefits from tradition with a base of Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne from some of the best villages in the cognac region. These 'Fine Champagne' eau-de-vie impart finesse and elegance.

Forty to fifty different cognacs are blended to create Exclusif and once the blend is assembled it goes back into cask at 43% abv for a further one-and-a-half years to allow the blend to properly marry. The casks used in this part of the process are so old that they don't impart any further tannin to the cognac. Finally the Exclusif is placed in a holding vat before bottling and this vat is never allowed to fall below one-third full so ensuring consistency between batches.

Exclusif's elegantly curved bottle is as contemporary as its contents but is in fact modelled on the traditional 'bouteille cognaçaise'. This tall cylindrical style of cognac bottle pre-dates the squat 'Josephine' cognac bottles. The lean shapely bottle not only looks better on the shelf but is more bartender friendly with its tall slender neck sitting proud from the speed-well.

Αξιολόγηση


Η γευσιγνωσία έγινε στις 19/01/2012

Όψη:

Clear, copper gold.

Μύτη:

Subtle floral violet with spicy hints of vanilla and gingerbread.

Στόμα:

Apricot fruit, caramel mellowness, balancing cinnamon and gingerbread spiciness with orange zest, hints of dark chocolate, coffee bean and vanilla. Good oak, fruit and floral balance.

Επίγευση:

Long and mellow with Exclusif's fruity character lasting to the end.

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Product Information

Barcode UPC: 3049197200777
Bottle Size: 700 ml
Closure: Natural cork stopper

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Παράγεται από:: Courvoisier S.A.
Owned by: Beam Suntory
UK distribution by: Edrington-Beam Suntory
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