Maison Gautier Cognac VS (75cl, 40%)

A VS cognac from Maison Gautier, founded in 1755 in Aigre in the Charente, where the house occupies an 18th-century water mill on the Osme River. It is a blend of Fins Bois and Bons Bois eaux-de-vie, aged a minimum of two years in French oak, and was named World's Best VS Cognac at the 2015 World Cognac Awards. The VS is crafted by cellar master Isabelle Couprie. Fins Bois brings quick-ageing eaux-de-vie with fresh-grape aromatics from heavy soils, while Bons Bois adds rustic depth from its coastal character. The nose brings soft white peach and apricot with a whisper of vanilla and a flinty mineral edge. The palate is juicy orchard fruit, gentle baking spice and honeyed oak, round and generous. The finish is smooth, with lingering spice and mineral warmth.