Rémy Martin’s V.S.O.P. Cognac is a unique and exceptional expression in the world of fine spirits. It sets itself apart by delivering a rich and mature flavor profile reminiscent of an older XO Cognac but at a fraction of the price. While it may not exhibit the traditional bright and fruity characteristics of a typical VSOP, it excels in its own right, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more complex and sophisticated Cognac experience.
Fast Facts:
Classification | VSOP Cognac Fine Champagne |
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Company | Rémy Cointreau |
Distillery | Rémy Martin (Touzac, Cognac, France) |
Cask | French Limousin Oak |
Still Type | Copper Pot (Alembic Charentais) |
Released | 1927 |
Proof | 80 (40% ABV) |
Aged | 4-12 years |
MSRP | £47.00 |
Awards | Gold, 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition; 2020 Impact Blue Chip Award |
Pros and Cons
Pros
1. Complexity and Richness | Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. offers the complexity and richness of a much older XO Cognac, providing a sophisticated sipping experience. |
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2. Mature Taste | Despite its age, it tastes older than its years, making it a truly satisfying sipper. |
Cons
1. Limited Versatility in Cocktails | Due to its darker and more subdued flavor profile, it may not work as well in cocktails compared to other VSOPs. |
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2. Deviation from VSOP Characteristics | Fans of the VSOP category may be disappointed with this less-vibrant expression, as it leans more towards the characteristics of an XO Cognac. |
Tasting Notes
Aspect | Description |
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Color | Vivid reddish copper |
Nose | Delicate with aromas of vanilla, light oak, baking spices, and sweet grape. |
Palate | Well-defined with notes of raisin, smooth dark chocolate, oaky spice, ripe peaches, and caramel. Flavors evolve with each sip, creating complexity. |
Finish | A dry, spicy, oaky finish with hints of saline and dark fruits. The fruitiness lingers in the aftertaste. |
Our Review
A VSOP Cognac, standing for “Very Superior Old Pale,” is typically aged for a minimum of four years in oak, offering a balance between the maturity of an XO and the freshness of a VS Cognac. Rémy Martin’s V.S.O.P. stands out in this category by presenting a darker, more refined palette of flavors, resembling the characteristics of an XO Cognac. It combines eaux-de-vie from the Grand Champagne and Petite Champagne regions, eschewing the bright fruitiness often associated with VSOPs.
While it may not be as versatile in cocktails, Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. shines as a sipping Cognac. It offers a rich and complex experience, akin to an XO Cognac, yet at a significantly lower price point than Rémy’s own impressive XO offering.
The only caveat is that it deviates from the typical VSOP qualities, such as vibrance and lively fruit notes. Those expecting a classic VSOP may find this expression to be a departure from the norm. However, for those seeking a sophisticated and well-aged Cognac at an affordable price, Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. is a worthwhile choice.
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Interesting Fact
In 1848, Paul-Emile Rémy Martin produced the first “Fine Champagne” Cognac, a term that denotes a blend of eaux-de-vie from both the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus (regions) in France.