Famille Vallein Tercinier's L'Erotique Grande Champagne Cognac

A Seductive Encounter: Unveiling Famille Vallein Tercinier's L'Erotique Grande Champagne Cognac

Famille Vallein Tercinier's L'Erotique Grande Champagne Cognac is a connoisseur's delight, a meticulously crafted spirit that lives up to its intriguing name.  This "Brut de Fut," meaning cask strength, bottling offers an unfiltered, full-bodied experience, showcasing the true essence of Grande Champagne, the most prestigious cru (growth area) in Cognac.

This detailed tasting note, exclusive to The General Wine Company, will guide you through the captivating layers of L'Erotique, offering insights into its aroma, flavour profile, and ideal serving suggestions.

A Feast for the Senses: The Aroma of L'Erotique

The first impression of L'Erotique is a captivating interplay of aromas. Rich, heady notes of dried fruits – think plump raisins, sun-dried apricots, and candied figs – take centre stage. These are intertwined with hints of toasted oak, a testament to the cognac's extended maturation in oak barrels. A touch of spice emerges, offering a subtle peppery warmth and a whisper of cinnamon. As the cognac breathes, a beguiling floral fragrance comes to the fore, with delicate hints of rose and jasmine adding a touch of elegance. The overall aroma is intensely complex, yet harmonious, promising a truly decadent tasting experience.

Unveiling the Depths: The Flavour Profile of L'Erotique

The first sip of L'Erotique is a revelation. The initial burst of flavour is surprisingly smooth, despite the cognac's cask strength. The dried fruit notes from the aroma translate beautifully onto the palate, offering a concentrated sweetness balanced by a delightful acidity. Hints of honeyed citrus peel and marmalade add a touch of vibrancy. As the cognac lingers on the tongue, the oak influence becomes more prominent, offering a warming, woody character. The spice notes from the aroma resurface, with a touch of ginger and nutmeg adding complexity. The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind a lasting impression of dried fruit, oak, and a hint of peppery spice.

Tres Vieux: A Testament to Ageing

The term "Tres Vieux" (Very Old) on the label signifies that L'Erotique has been aged for a considerable period. This extended maturation allows the cognac to develop its full complexity of flavour and aroma. The oak barrels contribute significantly to the character, imparting the warming woody notes and hints of spice. The "Brut de Fut" bottling further accentuates the cognac's natural characteristics, as it is bottled at cask strength without dilution or filtration. This allows the full spectrum of flavours and aromas to shine through, offering a truly authentic experience.

Serving Suggestions: Optimise Your L'Erotique Experience

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of L'Erotique, consider these serving suggestions:

• Neat: Enjoy L'Erotique neat in a snifter glass. This allows the full spectrum of aromas and flavours to develop. Let the cognac rest for a few minutes in the glass before taking a sip to allow the alcohol to mellow and the flavours to unfurl.
• A Touch of Water: A small amount of chilled water can help to open up the cognac and release even more subtle aromas. Add a few drops at a time and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
• Digestif: L'Erotique is an exceptional digestif. After a rich meal, savour a small serving to cleanse the palate and leave you with a warm, luxurious feeling.

Food Pairings:

L'Erotique's rich flavour profile makes it a versatile pairing option. Consider these suggestions:

• Chocolate: Pair L'Erotique with dark chocolate for a decadent and harmonious combination. The bitterness of the chocolate will complement the sweetness of the cognac, while the oaky notes will find harmony with the chocolate's roasted character.
• Cheese: Aged cheeses, such as Comté or a well-matured Gouda, create a delightful contrast with L'Erotique's sweetness. The creaminess of the cheese will balance the cognac's warmth, while the salty notes will enhance its fruitiness.
• Cigars: For a truly sophisticated experience, pair L'Erotique with a full-bodied cigar. The smoky notes of the cigar will complement the oaky character of the cognac, while the rich flavours of both will create a truly luxurious pairing.

A Collector's Piece or a Splendid Indulgence?

Famille Vallein Tercinier's L'Erotique Grande Champagne Cognac is a rare gem.  With its “Tres Vieux” designation and “Brut de Fut” bottling, this cognac is a collector's dream, offering a unique and authentic taste of Grande Champagne terroir.