Tastes

A rich VSOP from Leyrat, this was produced at the vineyards of Domaine de Chez Maillard in the Fins Bois. It opens with notes of hazelnut, almond, toffee, spices & a hint of dried herbs. The palate has notes of dried fruits, pears, stem ginger, pepper, custard & molasses, while closing rich & long with tannins, oak, fruit & a hint of violets. September 2017

A rich VSOP Cognac from the House of Camus, made including a portion of Borderies eaux-de-vie, which is well-known for using in their expressions. It opens with floral, yellow plum, raisin & vanilla notes; the palate adds notes of almond & walnut; while the finish is long & complex with light oak notes. September 2017

A good, intense, VSOP aged for slightly longer than a VS, this is designed for the contemporary brandy market. Exclusif is very fruity & rich working great in cocktails. It opens sweet with notes of fruit, sherry & ginger ale; the palate bitter & dry with notes of beer, grape & sherry; while the finish is candied with notes of grape, syrup & salt. September 2017

A rich, cognac from Cognac, France opening with notes of dried apple & pear; a palate with notes of caramel, brown sugar & toffee, while notes of grilled almond, vanilla, spice & white pepper led to a hot finish. November 2015 / August 2017

A delicate, Réserve Armagnac from France which is a blend of eaux-de-vie created from Ugni Blanc, Baco Blanc & Folle Blance grapes matured initially in new casks made from Gascony oak before moving to older casks. Réserve is made up eaux-de-vie aged around 7-15 years. It opens floral at first, with wafts of orange blossom & lilac. Soon enough, a good kick of oak & baking spices. A palate with notes of cinnamon & nutmeg, with a touch of white pepper. Creamy vanilla & brioche. apricot pastries; while floral notes return on the finish, joined by dried fruit & citrus peels & a bit of warmth. August 2017

An intense Bas Armagnac by Clés des Ducs from France aged for 25 years. It opens with notes of toffee & fruit; a balanced & complex palate of dried fruits & vanilla that leads to a long, complex yet smooth finish. August 2017

An intense, well-aged expression of single estate Bas Armagnac from which is made from eaux-de-vie which has matured for over 30 years. These have rested in traditional 400-litre oak casks, allowing the complex spirit to develop rich notes of stewed plums, tobacco, orange peel & dark coffee. August 2017

A delicate blend of vintages, including a eau-de-vie distilled in 1975, 1981, 1990 & 1995 that has notes of juicy raisin, honey & bitter cocoa for a soft & very smooth finish. August 2017 / June 2018