Warming and hedonistic!

Ieteicamais 83 /100

My understanding is that this is a 20-22 year old Borderies cognac. As a newcomer to the cognac world, I only have one other cognac in my possession to compare this too: Dudognon Napoleon (from Grande Champagne, 12 years old). Right away my nose gets warm, spicy Cola and maple syrup notes. Additionally, there's vanilla, a slight nuttiness, cinnamon, and pain d'epices (gingerbread). It's impossible to read about Borderies without seeing the "violet" smells reference. But honestly, living in the city, I just have no clue what a violet smells like, so I won't dare say this smells like violet. In the mouth it is full, fat, and rich. It's not as fresh as the Dudognon, but that is not for one second to say it lacks freshness. This cognac seems to be much more about maple syrup, vanilla, and warming baking spices than it is fresh and youthful fruit. I suppose this has to do with its age and also perhaps since it comes from Borderies. Really, I'd qualify this as comforting, warming and quite hedonistic. The length is great, and the finish packs a little heat but is smooth overall. In fact, the tight grip at the end provides a nice contrast to the fatness of the cognac - a nice balancing act. I am glad to be the proud owner of the bottle. Also, I should mention that this review is based of two nights of initial tastings, one glass neat and the other with a single drop of water, both of which tasted over several hours. That single drop of water was the preferred glass. Delivery and packaging perfect too!