A Story in Every Bottle – Very Old Cognacs
Cognacs produced before 1900 are very special indeed. Extremely rare, each bottle has a unique history and flavour which can never be replicated. Small quantities of cognac were aged in oak casks during this era and over the years, most of that stock has been consumed leaving very little in existence today. The grapes and distillation methods used in the 19th century produced cognac with drier and more organic flavours. These characteristics became unique to cognacs of the period as in 1871, the dreaded Phylloxera beetle killed off most of the vines. It took years to replant with Phylloxera resistant vines and for the brandy industry to recover. The consequent introduction of the Ugni Blanc grape changed the taste of cognac forever.
We take great care when sourcing our Very Old Cognacs to ensure quality and authenticity. Many of them came from small, independent producers and negoçiants who are no longer in existence. The bottles are often hand blown and have been stored for many years in Cognaçais cellars. Each individual bottle is extremely precious; it has a flavour to savour and a story to tell – well worth the exclusive price tag.