Review: Jean Luc-Pasquet - L. 84 Claude
Jean-Luc Pasquet - Tresors de Famille - L. 84 Claude - 2021 - 49.8%
From Cognac Expert: Le Cognac de Claude is first in the new Trésors de Famille range, which translates to Family Treasures, from the house of Pasquet. This eau-de-vie was bottled from a single 400-liter cask of Cognac which came from the Hilaire family’s Angeac-Champagne vineyards located in the Grande Champagne region.
The Hilaire’s Cognac has been distilled on the family property for as long as anyone can remember, and each member of the household contributes to the production where they are of most use. Although both Claude and Arlette distilled, it was Arlette who possessed a real flair for the wood-burning pot still and she has since taught her granddaughter Laura the art of distillery.
Notes: Expressive on the nose: strawberry creams, chocolate raspberries, honey, spring florals. Light oak underneath. With time, the fruits get more candied and jammy and the oak plays more toasted. All the berries on the palate: black, blue, raspberry. Some grippier fruit skin tannins. Grassy/herbal notes keep things bright. Oak is soft on the tail. Structure is active up front and gentle in the finish with great weight through and through.
Score: 8 (Stash One) My only comment is that at times this can feel over concentrated and tough to tease out. Unfortunately, even a few drops of water to try and open it up ruins the magic. Of all the cognacs I've shared with non-cognac drinkers, this has been the only unanimous hit.
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