Cognac Dudognon Grande Champagne, Vieille Reserve 20 year

The Dudognon family has crafted exceptional cognac in the heart of Grande Champagne since 1776, becoming one of the only producers to refuse selling to the big houses in favor of their own terroir-driven bottlings. Under the stewardship of Raymond Dudognon's daughter Claudine, they maintain strict traditionalist methods, distilling only estate-grown Ugni Blanc in small alambic stills and aging without any additives. This Vieille Réserve represents the pure expression of Grande Champagne's chalky soils, where 20 years is just the beginning of the cognac's secondary evolution.

Tasting Notes

The nose reveals fine rancio notes alongside hints of honey, coffee, and spice, with poached pear, rose, and honeysuckle emerging. On the palate, primary notes of green apple, pear and vanilla give way to ripe yellow pear, apricot and white peach, with cookie dough and baking spices adding complexity. The mouthfeel is fine and ample, with notes of sweet spices and flowers, leading to a cooling, evergreen finish of remarkable length. Everything about this magnificent cognac is sensuous and exceptionally balanced, displaying chocolatey richness with creamy persistence.

Food Pairings

Dark chocolate desserts, caramel ice cream, plum pie, aged cheeses

Details

• Varietal: Ugni Blanc
• Region: Cognac, France
• Appellation: Grande Champagne
• Vintage: NV