dry but not austere. my go-to when I am in a mood for something serious and toeing the edge of mean. like my mood. then it blooms into satisfaction. I adjust using different wines, from brut to demi-sec and love each of the variations. I also use a smooth but not overly fruity brandy, or herbal vodka or a golden semi-dry sherry to a good quality oaked sherry or even Dry Sack. All good results and effective to get the job done.
I wanted to like this cocktail, but I must say that the boozy quality was overpowering, and there wasn't much flavor or character to it. All I tasted was boozy alcohol.
The Vodka could not hold up the cocktail, so I might consider substituting it for a base of Bourbon or Rye —which I think might blend more nicely with the Cognac, the Sherry, and Champagne.