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What’s the Oldest Cognac Ever Tasted by a Human? Exploring History, Legend, and Expert Opinions
If you are a cognac lover or simply curious about rare and vintage spirits, you may have wondered what’s the oldest cognac ever tasted by a human. The answer is not straightforward, as there are various factors that affect the authenticity, provenance, and value of old cognacs, as well as subjective tastes and preferences. However, by exploring historical records, anecdotal stories, and expert opinions, we can uncover some fascinating insights and possibilities.
In this blog post, we will delve into the world of old cognacs and address some key questions and topics such as:
– What is cognac and how is it made?
– What makes old cognacs valuable and sought after?
– How can we determine the age and authenticity of vintage cognacs?
– What are some famous and rare examples of old cognacs?
– Who are some notable cognac connoisseurs and their experiences with old cognacs?
– What are some tips for tasting old cognacs and appreciating their flavors and aromas?
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What is Cognac and How is it Made?
Cognac is a type of brandy that is made from distilled wine in the Cognac region of southwestern France. Only specific grape varieties are allowed to be used, such as Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Folle Blanche. The wine is double distilled in copper pot stills to extract the alcohol and flavor compounds, and then aged in oak barrels to develop complexity, maturity, and color. Cognac is classified into several age categories, from VS (Very Special), which means at least 2 years of aging, to XO (Extra Old), which means at least 10 years of aging. The age statement on the label indicates the youngest eau-de-vie (water of life) in the blend, not the average or oldest.
What Makes Old Cognacs Valuable and Sought After?
Old cognacs are valuable and sought after for various reasons, including:
– Rarity and scarcity: Some cognacs, especially those made before or during major historical events, are very rare and hard to find. As the years pass, the loss of evaporation (the “angel’s share”) and the absorption of wood flavors and colors make the remaining cognac more concentrated, balanced, and refined. Thus, the older the cognac, the less there is, and the higher the demand and price.
– Heritage and prestige: Cognac is often associated with luxury, elegance, and tradition, and some brands have a history and reputation that elicits admiration and loyalty from collectors and connoisseurs. For example, cognacs from the Grande Champagne or Petite Champagne regions are regarded as some of the finest and most prized in the world, and brands like Martell, Rémy Martin, Hennessy, and Courvoisier have a long history of excellence and innovation.
– Complexity and flavor profile: Old cognacs can offer a wide range of flavors and aromas, depending on the type of grapes, terroir, distillation methods, and aging conditions. Common tasting notes for old cognacs include honey, vanilla, oak, leather, tobacco, nuts, spices, and dried fruits, among others. Some cognacs may also have a “rancio” flavor, which is a funky, nutty, and umami taste that develops only after prolonged aging in oak barrels.
– Investment potential: Like many rare and valuable items, old cognacs can be considered as investment assets that may appreciate in value over time. However, investing in old cognacs requires knowledge, research, and caution, as the market can be volatile, unregulated, and subject to various risks such as counterfeits, auctions fees, and storage costs.
How Can We Determine the Age and Authenticity of Vintage Cognacs?
Determining the age and authenticity of vintage cognacs can be a complex and challenging task, especially if the provenance and history of the bottle are not well documented or verified. However, there are some common methods and clues that can help us to assess the age and authenticity of old cognacs, such as:
– Checking the label and packaging: Old cognacs may have different labels, bottle shapes, and closures than modern ones, and may display the name of the particular cognac house or brand, the region of origin, and the age statement. However, labels can be tampered with or copied, so it is not enough to rely solely on them. The quality and condition of the packaging, such as the cork, foil, and capsule, can also provide some hints about the age and storage history of the cognac.
– Examining the bottle and liquid: Old cognacs may have some sediment or haze, as well as tiny air bubbles or tears, due to the natural aging and settling process. The color may also vary from pale gold to dark amber, depending on the age and type of oak used. However, these visual cues are not always reliable, as they can be faked or altered. The smell and taste of the cognac, on the other hand, can reveal more about its age and quality, but only if tasted by an experienced and trained person.
– Consulting a professional appraiser: To be more confident about the age and authenticity of an old cognac, you may want to consult a professional appraiser or auction house that specializes in spirits. They can analyze the label, bottle, liquid, and packaging, as well as the historical context and market trends, to give you an estimated value and provenance of the cognac. However, beware of the fees and commissions that they may charge, and do your homework before accepting their offer.
– Doing your own research: If you are passionate about old cognacs and want to explore their origins and stories, you can do your own research and investigation. This can involve reading books, articles, and blogs about cognac history, visiting museums and distilleries in Cognac, and talking to experts and enthusiasts in online forums or tastings. By expanding your knowledge and appreciation of cognac, you can also enhance your enjoyment and satisfaction of drinking it.
What are Some Famous and Rare Examples of Old Cognacs?
There are many famous and rare examples of old cognacs, some of which have legendary status and lore. Here are some examples of old cognacs that have made headlines or are highly regarded by experts and enthusiasts:
– A.E. Dor Cognac Jarnac-Moulin (1789): This is believed to be the oldest cognac that has ever been bottled and tasted by a human. The cognac was distilled by Jean-Baptiste Comandon in 1789, during the French Revolution, and was reportedly hidden in a demijohn (a large glass vessel) for more than 150 years before being discovered by Jacques Hardy in a cellar. Only one bottle of this cognac was released by the A.E. Dor cognac house, and it was sold for over €60,000 in 2009 to a Swiss buyer.
– Rémy Martin Louis XIII (1900-1920s): This is one of the most iconic and luxurious cognacs in the world, named after the king who reigned from 1610 to 1643. The Louis XIII blend consists of more than 1,200 eaux-de-vie that are aged between 40 and 100 years, including some from the early 20th century. The crystal decanter is designed by Baccarat and has a fleur-de-lys stopper. A bottle of Louis XIII can cost several thousand dollars, depending on the age, edition, and rarity.
– Martell 300th Anniversary (1715-2015): This is a limited edition blend created by Martell, one of the oldest and most historic cognac houses in France, to commemorate its 300th anniversary. The blend includes eaux-de-vie that were aged up to 100 years old, and was presented in a Baccarat crystal decanter that was inspired by the traditional “montre” flask used by cellar masters. The 300 bottles produced were sold for $15,000 each, and became highly sought after by collectors and Martell fans.
– Courvoisier Erte (1988-1996): This is a series of eight cognacs that were released by Courvoisier in collaboration with the Russian artist Erte, who designed the Art Deco-inspired labels and packaging. Each bottle contained a blend of eaux-de-vie that were aged up to 100 years, and was named after a different letter of the alphabet. Only 1,000 sets of these limited edition bottles were released, and they are now highly prized by collectors and art lovers.
Who are Some Notable Cognac Connoisseurs and Their Experiences with Old Cognacs?
There are many cognac connoisseurs and enthusiasts who have tasted and collected old cognacs, and who have shared their experiences and opinions with the world. Here are some notable examples:
– Winston Churchill: The former British Prime Minister was a famous lover of cognac, and had a particular fondness for Pol Roger champagne and Hennessy cognac. According to his grandson, he once declared that “The Waterloo of the English will always be celebrated by the French with four fine meals a day,” and drank cognac throughout the day during his visit to France.
– Ian Buxton: The British spirits expert and author of several books about whisky and rum is also a fan of old cognacs. In his book “101 Legendary Cognacs,” he shares his top picks of rare and delicious cognacs that are worth seeking out, including Martell Création Grand Extra (1906), Jules Robin Extra (1883), and Hardy Perfection (140 years old).
– Salvatore Calabrese: The Italian mixologist and owner of the Salvatore’s Legacy bar in London is renowned for his expertise in vintage spirits, including cognacs. In 2012, he broke the world record for the most expensive cocktail, which contained a blend of cognacs that were aged between 40 and 177 years old, and was sold for £5,500. He has also designed a cocktail menu inspired by the history of cognac, featuring drinks named after Napoleon, Charles Dickens, and Frank Sinatra.
What are Some Tips for Tasting Old Cognacs and Appreciating their Flavors and Aromas?
Tasting old cognacs can be a pleasurable and enriching experience, but it also requires some knowledge and skills to fully appreciate the nuances and complexities of the spirit. Here are some tips for tasting old cognacs:
– Use a suitable glass: A tulip-shaped glass with a narrow rim and a wide bowl is ideal for releasing the aromas and concentrating the flavors of the cognac. Avoid using tall, narrow glasses or bowls that have thick rims or flutes, as they can diminish the richness and depth of the cognac.
– Observe the appearance: Hold the glass against a white background and observe the color, clarity, and viscosity of the cognac. Look for any impurities, tears, or bubbles that may indicate the age and quality of the spirit.
– Smell the aroma: Gently swirl the cognac in the glass to release the aromas and then bring the glass close to your nose to smell them. Take several deep sniffs and try to identify the different scents, such as fruit, flowers, spices, or wood. Don’t inhale too deeply or for too long, as the alcohol content of the cognac can be intense.
– Taste the flavor: Take a small sip of the cognac and let it roll over your tongue to coat all the taste buds. Chew the cognac a bit and let it linger in your mouth for a while, to explore the different flavors and textures. Look for sweetness, bitterness, sourness, saltiness, and umami, as well as any specific notes that you can detect, such as caramel, honey, tobacco, or leather.
– Finish with an aftertaste: Swallow the cognac and observe the aftertaste that lingers in your mouth and throat. Note any sensations of warmth, burn, or dryness, as well as any lingering flavors or smells that you can detect. Some cognacs may have a longer, more complex finish than others, depending on the age, blend, and terroir.
– Take your time and enjoy: Tasting old cognacs should be a leisurely and enjoyable activity, not a rushed or stressful one. Savor each sip and appreciate the history, craft, and artistry behind the spirit. Share your impressions with others and learn from their perspectives too. Don’t worry too much about the “right” or “wrong” way to taste cognacs, but instead be open to new experiences and ideas.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have explored the fascinating world of old cognacs, from their origins and production methods to their values and tastes. We have seen that old cognacs can offer a rich and diverse range of flavors and aromas, depending on their age, provenance, and blend. We have also learned that determining the age and authenticity of old cognacs can be a challenge, but that there are ways to minimize the risks and maximize the rewards. Finally, we have shared some tips for tasting old cognacs and appreciating their beauty and complexity. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned cognac aficionado, we hope that this blog post has stimulated your curiosity and enriched your knowledge. Cheers!
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