1990 Grosperrin Cognac - Fins Bois - 45.7%
From Grosperrin: This vintage Cognac comes from a winegrower from the village of Siecq, located between Rouillac and Matha. This small mixed farming estate (animals, cereals) is typical of the agricultural estates of the region. Through three successive harvests (1988, 1989, 1990), the winegrower had only been able to keep one barrel of Cognac for each year. This single cask of 1990 was aged under State control from its distillation until June 2006.
The Fin Bois cru is often characterized as having less chalky soil than Grande or Petite Champagne crus. The result is soil similar to wine growing regions of Burgundy and Champagne.
This sample was generously provided by Cognac Grosperrin.
Notes: Super tropical on the nose - passionfruit, guava, mango. Touch of wood and fruity, chapstick wax. Slow to open on the palate. Very concentrated with big fruit sugars. Wood starts to open things up a little mid-palate. Might need some water.
w/Water: Nose takes on some mentholation. On the palate, the front opens up with vanilla, honey, grapefruit, sponge cake. Some grassier and pollen notes emerge as well. Wood is a little more pronounced in the finish. Return of the tropical fruit toward the end is a pleasant surprise. Structure is much improved.
Pour This For: Anyone who digs well-aged, ex-bourbon barrel Speyside single malt - honey, grass, fruit.
Score: 8 (Stash One) This one swims well. Water dampens some of the great tropical fruit on the nose, but what it does for the palate is well worth the sacrifice.
Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour