A sensory adventure from grape to glass: The Selection des Domaines Cognac from Ménard A house of heritage and history, the Ménard estate was founded in 1815, the name is synonymous in the region for its use of local products destined for those international palates. Using ancestral expertise, this 80-hectare estate is situated in the premier cru of Cognac; Grande Champagne. The estate boasts traditional copper alembic stills to distill their eaux-de-vie, a true hallmark of heritage, respecting tradition while looking to the future, resulting in some of the finest Cognacs this region has to offer. This particular VS has been hand-selected by the cellar masters of the Menard estate. It boasts a fabulously floral bouquet of grape blossom and petunias, with subtle hints of oak and dried vine shoots, a sensory journey of the Cognac's production from A to Z, from the grape harvest to the maturation in oak casks. Once sipped, this Cognac lingers beautifully on the mouth, ending on a lavishly lengthy finish for a Cognac of this age. Menard VSOP Cognac: a Product of Ancestral Knowledge and Skill Aged for a minimum of four years in Limousin oak, Menard VSOP Cognac represents a wonderful young expression of the Grande Champagne, showing clear notes of grapevine blossom and orchard fruits. The chalky soils of this famous world-famous terroir allow vines to extract water during even the hottest months, resulting in plump and acidic Ugni Blanc grapes; the perfect conditions for creating quality eaux-de-vie. A house of heritage and history, for nearly two centuries the Menard family have cultivated their vineyards. The official land registry records show that in 1815 Jean Menard owned a sizeable plot of land and was already distilling spirits for the local community. Remaining true to their ancestral expertise, this 80-hectare estate is still situated in the Premier Cru of Cognac: Grande Champagne. The Menard estate boasts traditional copper alembic stills to craft their eaux-de-vie according to the traditional Charentais method. This hallmark of heritage shows their dedication to tradition, while their modern design looks to the future. With just a few years of maturation, this VSOP Cognac shows just what can be done with the combination of terroir, traditional distillation and traditional oak maturation. So simple, yet so complex. Heritage and History: The Ménard Réserve Extra Cognac This particular Ménard Réserve Extra Cognac has been given the "Extra Reserve" age meaning the youngest eaux-de-vie in it are aged for a minimum of 10 years, although it's sure with a Cognac Maison of this standing there are some that are much older hidden inside for your degustatory pleasure. Produced using grapes grown in the Premier Cru, also known as the Grande Champagne, it is a Cognac of excellent quality. The chalky soil of the Grande Champagne is unlike any other. The high quality soil has millions of years of fossilization to thank for producing such refined, floral aromas and a long lasting finish. The Cognac itself has an agreeable nose, with a very pronounced "rancio" character thanks to its age. The first aromas to hit the senses are nutty, predominantly walnut, hazelnut and peanut, followed by a light aroma of curry. On the palate, the Cognac lingers well as expected for a Cognac of this age, a floral finale finishes off the drinking experience, with wild carnations and vintage roses perfuming the senses.