Maison Ferrand releases double cask Cognac

Maison Ferrand, producer of Pierre Ferrand Cognac, has released Reserve Double Cask Cognac. The release is the first Pierre Ferrand Cognac to be aged in two different casks, initially French oak Cognac casks, and then in casks that once held Banyuls, a fortified wine produced in the South of France.

Reserve Double Cask replaces the current Reserve and become a permanent addition to the Pierre Ferrand portfolio. Reserve Double Cask is bottled at 42.3% ABV, featuring a higher proof similar to most Cognacs from the so-called “golden era.” The suggested retail price is $79.99 for a 75cl bottle.

Maison Ferrand claim that Reserve Double Casky revives one of the vanished traditions of Cognac – maturing the spirit in different types of casks to enrich flavour and complexity. With this in mind, Reserve Double Cask is made of Cognac that has been matured seven to 10 years in small oak barrels kept in seven different aging cellars (some dry, some humid), and then blended with 20 year old Cognac. Once blended, the Cognac is placed in Banyuls casks and aged in one of Pierre Ferrand’s humid cellars for one year.

Alexandre Gabriel proprietor of Maison Ferrand and master blender, Pierre Ferrand says: “I research the past as much as I look to the future when it comes to spirits production. In the past, Cognac had even more character than it does today because master-blenders then aged their Cognac in many different types of casks to bring forward the beautiful flavor of the grape Cognac is made from. I have always been fascinated by these time-honored techniques and decided to create this special Reserve Double Cask not only to satisfy my curiosity, but to showcase the incredible range of Cognac flavors. It has become my go-to Pierre Ferrand for sipping. I also enjoy it with a large round pure ice cube, the way my grandfather used to sip some of his Cognacs.”

26 April 2017 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, news editor