Known for their elegance and sophistication, Martell’s cognacs are produced using fine-grained oak barrels and double distillation of clear wines, a happy marriage that has become the signature of the brand’s fine taste. The new Martell VSOP Aged in Red Barrels, however, carries a heightened feature discernible only by the most discerning connoisseur. Unlike its brethren, the uniqueness of this particular cognac is from the full ageing of eaux de vie in only red barrels. Known as futs roux because of the reddish tinge of their wood, these barrels have reached the perfect stage of maturation for both the oak and eaux-de-vie, allowing for an ideally balance exchange between the two.
Typically crafted from woods between 180 and 200 years old, these casks are characterised by finer, less pronounced tannins, which work better with the delicacy of Martell’s clear wines, developing aromas that are more subtle, generous and refined. Time in these red barrels has also created the perfect balance between fruity and spicy woody notes, making the cognac the perfect pair for delicate cuisine. On the nose, the cognac unfurls coppery tones, with a round and fresh bouquet reflective of intense fruity notes and subtle mellowed woody notes. Swirl it and the power of its aromas grow and gain depth, with fleshier fruits, such as apricot or vine peach, chiming in, all of them marvellously enhanced by delicate notes of sweet spices.
