The Brandy Bottle – Ragnaud Sabourin, Paradis

Perhaps it is because the cognac producing region is relatively small that it is also rather incestuous. Like many cognac producers, the history of Ragnaud Sabourin and its distant relatives who are only just around the corner is colourful.

Family matters though have not prevented Ragnaud Sabourin identifying a quantity of cognacs hidden in a corner of their cellars from 1903. They have bottled it  (but it has to be said, in the cheapest bottles made) and put it into a presentation box. It is as well that we do not score the presentation!

That aside what is in the bottle is nothing less than historic  with lots of complex floral aromas and a delightful orange marmalade citrus and fresh walnut rancio which is immediately apparent. This is one of our greats and a truly remarkable cognac.

Our score 9.5/10