Rémy Martin V.S.O.P Cognac

Cognac usually comes from blending many casks together. This V.S.O.P is drawn from a single cask instead, bottled at cask strength with nothing added, which gives it a fuller, more direct read than the style often delivers.

Molasses sets the tone, thick and slightly sweet, with tropical fruit brightening the edges. Underneath sits dark chocolate and a thread of licorice that keeps things from turning syrupy. Oak and baking spice hold the finish together. Full strength means it drinks warm and concentrated, so a few drops of dilution will open the fruit if you want it softer.

The 1.75 L bottle is the practical size for a house Cognac — enough for after-dinner pours through the winter, and sturdy enough to stand up in a sidecar or an old fashioned variant.