Taster

Nose: Sweet pea and violet with lemon sherbets, sandalwood, ylang ylang and patchouli oil. White peach and pea shoots. The hallmarks of old Cognac.

Palate: Cologne with floral and essential oil. Spicy leather to boot. A warming alcohol burn carries that peachy character.

Finish: More flowers and sandalwood.

Comment: I love it, but the big mouthful of flowers will be polarising. The florality is so Cognac-like, it’s unbelievable. Sip while in a leather wingback chair.

Score: 8.1

Taster

Nose: Dried sour cherries with a ketchup tartness, almost a cider vinegar-style acidity. Dried tobacco with plum jam and raisins. Peppermint and fennel.

Palate: Vibrant and full of flavour. Silky texture brings classic cherries with a hint of cola. Maple syrup, tea, cloves and tobacco. Water dulls the spices, allows the fruit to shine.

Finish: Long, with strawberry jam, tobacco, cinnamon and plenty of warmth from the wood.

Comment: A Bourbon with plenty of fruity vibrancy and vigour. Very enjoyable.

Score: 8.2