Dudognon Cognac Heritage 750ml Ludwigs Fine Wine

93 points Vinous

 A fascinating 40-year-old spirit – Speyside by way of the tropics. Expressive aromas and flavors of both fleshy exotic fruit and salty sea air reminiscent of Scotch, plus a healthy dose of rancio. On the palate, it’s expansive and amiable, but followed by a long, serious, very dry finish full of astringent grilled walnut. Unique, but possibly a little confounding. (41% abv) (JW)  (9/2019)

K&L Notes

There is not a single cognac producer that exemplifies the importance of terroir more than the line up from Dudognon. Grand champagne, the most prized region, is particularly adapted for long term aging. The chalky soils create high acid wines that turn into the most complex and elegant eau-de-vie. When they’re young they can be slightly austere, filled with bright fruit and fresh floral aromas. As they age, they develop incredible complexity, unsurpassed by any spirit. Dudognon is without a doubt the finest producer of grand champagne cognac. Their tiny parcel of land situated on the soft slopes outside of Lignieres-Sonneville is tended completely by hand. The family is responsible for every step of production and hasn’t changed the recipe in nearly a century. The Heritage is their oldest standard offering and represents fully mature grand champagne cognac without any additives besides the slowest addition of water over the 40+ years it takes to create this product. This stands confidently up against cognacs at tenfold the price without the need for a fancy crystal decanter, additional sugar or caramel coloring. A truly superlative offering.