VSOP/Similar Cognac
While the lower-priced VS category accounts for the lion’s share of global Cognac volumes, the entry point to quality Cognac for most people remains VSOP, encompassing Cognacs aged for at least four years, and often far longer. Beyond the classification, some producers are now preferring to focus instead on provenance – in terms of sub-region or vineyard.
You might know Merlet best for the company’s range of fruit liqueurs, but the family has been distilling eaux-de-vie in the Cognac region for well over 150 years. The ‘Brothers’ in question here are Gilles Merlet’s sons Pierre and Luc, and this Cognac is billed as ‘a new style for a new generation’. That means highly approachable and mixable.
Serving Suggestions: We’re in classic Cognac cocktail territory here, particularly juleps, slings, sazeracs and old fashioneds. Or, for a more relaxed feel, simply over ice and/or tonic.
Tasting Notes
A surprisingly shy nose of delicate florals, fruit and something darker and spicier lurking in the background. By contrast, the palate is relatively big and boisterous, with sour cherry, cola cube and a drying finish. All about character rather than complexity.
