J.P. Menard et Fils Grande Champagne Ancestrale Cognac

This Ancestrale displays a deep amber color in the glass from its decades in a large old oak barrel. The nose unfurls from the glass with notes of chocolate, baking spices, hard toffee, dried flowers, and a hint of wood smoke. The palate picks up dried fruits toward apricot and plums, with walnuts, spice, and rancio that continues through the long, complex finish. Enjoy!

Stéphane Ménard and his cousin Marion Ménard splitting duties in the cellar and the commercial side of things. It truly is a family affair. We found their Grande Champagnes, with their outstanding balance between floral, fruity, and evolved notes, to be very impressive. Their Ancéstrale is put forth at a slightly higher ABV of 45% and is at least 45 years of age. To our research and knowledge, it has never been imported into the United States before. Michael Kennel, D&M