SPRING SALE Up to 30% OFF on 900+ bottles — all in stock in our warehouse. EXPLORE
Welcome to the distinguished - and trendy - realm of Single Cask Cognacs, a journey into what some say is the purest expression of Cognac craftsmanship. As the name implies, a Single Cask Cognac comes from a single cask without the customary blending that defines most Cognacs. This method captures the essence of the cask's character and unique, often idiosyncratic, identity. These single cask Cognacs can offer a Cognac experience that is as unique as it is rare. Moreover, they are almost always bottled without any additives, or even filtration.
While some purists in the region will argue that a true Single Cask Cognac should spend its entire aging process in one single barrel, often an older barrel to minimize the oak's influence, the reality on the ground is more nuanced. Most Single Cask Cognacs, while bottled from a single cask, may have matured in two or three different casks throughout their lifetime, creating a complexity and depth of flavor that can be quite surprising.
So while they are coming from a single cask at the time of bottling, they actually saw several casks throughout the aging process. Can and should that still be considered a single cask Cognac? We openly pose the question for consideration, without providing concrete answers. In fact, black and white answers on the subject do not really exist.
Diverging slightly in the Cognac lexicon is the term Brut de Fût (cask strength) referring to Cognacs bottled directly from the cask at their natural alcohol level without any dilution. Although often originating from a Single Cask, the distinction lies in its unaltered strength, capturing the spirit's raw power and full-bodied flavor profile.
However, even with something as specific as a Cask Strength Cognac, there are nuances, since some producers choose to slightly reduce the alcohol content immediately after distillation. So while the Cognac may be bottled thirty years later at “Cask Strength”, there was a reduction 30 years prior. For this reason, we can find some “Cask Strength” Cognacs that are relatively young, say 20-25 years old, that are already approaching the mid to low 40% in alcohol. It’s never easy to know all the precise details about every Cask Strength Cognac that enters the market, but thankfully the above terms are easy enough to grasp. And producers, generally speaking, are more than willing to respond if posed the question.
What’s for sure is that Single Cask and Brut de Fût Cognacs showcase the exceptional diversity within the Cognac world, gaining popularity among connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. This dynamic category not only underscores the versatility and richness of Cognac but also aligns with Cognac Expert's mission to celebrate and promote the unparalleled diversity of this storied spirit. Cognacs for cocktails, rich traditional blends (VSOP, XO, Hors d’Age), vintages, single casks, and cask strength Cognacs are all branches from the same tree. And the tree is healthier and more robust thanks to the existence of these sub categories.
Make no mistake about it, there are some true gems out there. If you are ignoring this Single Cask and Brut de Fut category, or are otherwise hesitant with the high alcohol level, think again. When well chosen, these Cognacs can offer some of the most interesting unique experiences - and aromatic and flavor profiles altogether different from the other Cognac categories. Try new things, embrace the diversity of Cognac.
Palate: On the palate, this spirit is a delightful mix of flavors. The sweet juiciness of peaches and Muscat grapes is beautifully balanced with the orchard fruit notes. The warmth of cinnamon and the unique taste of tobacco contribute to the complexity. The darker, richer honeys meld with the syrupy sweetness of the dried raisins, creating a lush, full-bodied experience. Present tannins add structure, giving the spirit a slightly robust edge, while the cooling sensations of eucalyptus and menthol provide a refreshing counterbalance.
Finish: The finish introduces a slight bitter note, an intriguing contrast to the sweetness and richness that precede it. This bitterness, coupled with the lingering flavors of fruit, floral, and the refreshing menthol, creates a complex and memorable end.
Nose: An exotic allure, intertwining toasted notes with a spicy rhapsody. A mature rancio character adds to its distinctiveness.
Palate: Vibrant and powerful with lively spices. Notes of ginger intertwine with a hint of acacia, creating a flavor profile that is both robust and nuanced.
Finish: The experience concludes with a lasting impression, leaving a trail of spicy warmth and complexity.
Please note: Shipping only in 2024
Bottle image/label is subject to change.
Grande Champagne Cognac at cask strength is a statement. I was not disappointed. The whole room is filled with the scent, first as sharp as pepper from the mortar, with a little water, woody aromas predominate. When diluted further, it is reminiscent of the scent in a humidor. Add a few drops and...
The Cognac Expert's flavor profile is pretty spot on. However, crank all those flavors to 11 for intensity. I would also add that there is a molasses sweetness in there too. This has a VERY concentrated taste experience. Be sure to let this sit for AT LEAST 15-20 minutes, tasting a little as you go...
Nose: Extremely rich, varied aromas of cigar cases, old Limousin oak, vanilla, dried fruits and peppery spices.
Palate: Wonderfully round and complex tasting, with that much sought after Charantais rancio. Full-bodied, with an impressively long finish.
Had this as part of the samples for the Cognac Expert online tasting event on 21 October 2023. This is the first time I tried this kind of Cognac and was really amazed as the group pointed out notes of pineapple and coconut, which were not immediately apparent to myself. I got these notes with their...
Nose: Aromatic; Immediately, mango and wet wood. Very mouth-watering, a basket full of overripe fruits. A sense of an ancient and humid place. You can tell that this is a very old cognac. Mouth: Full, powerful, a bit rustic, but at the same time refined. Exotic fruits, bitter orange peel, some spices,...
Number 23 in the calendar. And I had to check again if I had picked the right number, because I don‘t get a lot of the notes the other reviewers get. The nose is lovely though, a lot of different exotic fruits. But on the palate I only get the cognac rasins and it feels very dry. The finish is short...
This is a rare Bons Bois a blend 1970 and 1974 just slightly above 40%. It has a nice deep mahogany color. It is rich and inviting on the nose. I find intense fruit notes, bread and some wood. In mouth it is very tasteful. The intensity is very good. It is short as most cognacs from Bons Bois. The...
Deep amber colour. This cognac shows a deep, opulent nose on exotic, overripe fruits, mushrooms, humid forest soil and wood. On the palate it is oily, quite mouthfilling on overripe mangos, pineapples, oranges and spices. The finish is medium and elegant on fruits, spices and wood. Tasted H2H...
Palate: A velvety embrace, promising depth despite a subtle initial aqueous touch. It then unfurls into a cavalcade of flavors, from roasted pineapple to Corinthian raisins and gentle spices.
Finish: The finish is not overly long, which is characteristic of a very aged Bons Bois, but it leaves a memorable impression.
Palate: Stewed plum and cherry flavours give way to cinnamon and warm orange peel combined with a subtle tobacco note.
Finish: Plum and milk chocolate, transitioning into tobacco leaf and musty earth in finish.
Nose: A complex, gourmet bouquet where earthy undertones of forest floor and mushroom meet the floral notes of linden and vine flower, evolving into the luxury of a cigar box, candied fruits, cocoa, and praline.
Palate: An intense and lively attack gives way to a creamy and spicy mouthfeel, marrying the spiciness of pepper with the lush sweetness of candied fruits.
Finish: The tasting journey concludes with delicate whispers of jasmine, the warm allure of vanilla, and the rich caress of toasted hazelnuts.
