A beautiful welcome note for those looking to gain an understanding of the famed French Brandy, Cognac Park VSOP offers a unique glimpse into Distillerie Tessendier’s premier brand. Unlike the other Cognac’s produced by Park, no grapes from the Borderies region are used in its makeup.
Composed of ugni blanc grapes, 40% from Fins Bois, 40% from Petite Champagne, and 20% Grande Champagne, the eau de vie begins maturing in lightly toasted new French Limousin oak casks for eight months, before being transferred to older, used casks and aged for eight to 12 years. After blending, the VSOP is bottled at 40% ABV.
On the nose, this medium bodied Cognac presents notes of orange blossom and toasted almonds. The palate features flambéed banana and freshly picked vine peaches, which weave together with bursts of jasmine and bergamot. If you’re looking for an everyday Cognac this might be just the one for you.
Cognac Park VSOP is great for sipping, but also comes at a price point that makes it reasonable to use in cocktails. If you’re looking to mix something up, the brand suggests a Maple Old Fashioned:
Maple Old Fashioned
- 6 cl of Cognac Park VSOP
- 1 cl of maple syrup
- 2 drops of Angostura aromatic bitters
In the glass, pour the maple syrup, the Cognac Park VSOP and the 2 drops of Angostura bitter. Add the ice-cubes to half fill the glass and then mix for 10 seconds with the help of a mixing spoon. To finish, add more ice-cubes to fill the glass and mix for 5 seconds. Garnish with orange zest and/or a slice of ginger.
Established in 1880, Cognac Park is the premier brand produced by Distillerie Tessendier. Today, the distillery and vineyards are composed within an estate of more than 60 acres in the heart of one of the most exclusive growing areas of Cognac: The Borderies. The distillery is in its fourth generation of family ownership with brothers and Master Blenders Lilian and Jérôme Tessendier currently at the helm. One of the most innovative creators of the French spirit, the house ventures beyond classical frontiers, developing Cognacs with contemporary twists.
Cognac Park makes a variety of different Cognacs, including Park VS Carte Blanche, Park Borderies, Park XO Grande Champagne, Park XO Cigar Blend, and Park Extra Grande Champagne, which are all part of their core range.
Cognac Park VSOP Ratings:
- Distiller: 3.65/5
- Wine Enthusiast: 90/100
