With collectors being collectors, and some collector diversifying into different collections, it’s not too surprising that a bottler of collectable and rare spirits pairs with a creator of rare and collectable coins.
The difference is mainly that the rare spirits have been created ages ago and are rare because of how long it’s been and how long it’s been in the making. The coins from Lux Coin are rare because they are created as such. There’s specific thing with drops of ultra rare spirits in them, and other things that make them special.
These drops of ultra rare spirits are things like a drop of Harewood rum from (I kid you not) 1780, Glenlivet from 1862 and Cognac Gautier from 1762. This last bit is also present in the Cognac we’re reviewing today. At least, drops of it are.
This Vallein Tercinier is 70 years old and matured in oak from 1952 to 2010, from which is was in a Dame Jeanne. Only 100 bottles of this are available at a price of € 825 a pop.
Sniff:
A very timid nose, with a herbaceous hint of mint or basil. Somehow it’s surprisingly crisp for a 70 year old spirit. Notes of minerals emerge, with a hint of flint. A dusting of oak and sawdust, and minor notes of fruit.
Sip:
The palate has a little bit of bite, with notes of oak and grapes. It builds nicely with an little increase of woody heat. A hint of charcoal and slate. Baked grapes.
Swallow:
The finish is very dry, with some grape skin tannins and a bit of a grapeseed bitterness. Lots of oak, some minerals.
It rather timid and the oak hasn’t taken over, so that makes for a very soothing and rather glorious drinking experience. I always find it quite remarkable to be drinking something that’s older than my dad, and this one is no exception. The quality of the spirit is tremendous, and therefore this is a very highly commended sip.
Thanks to Jack Tar for sending over a sample!
90/100
Malt Fascination 