Ferrand, BB&R Exclusive Single Cask, 32-Year-Old, Grande Champagne Cognac (60.4%)

A luscious counterpoint to the “elegance at all costs” mindset of many Cognac houses, Alexander Gabriel at Ferrand prefers allowing each cask to find its own path. In the case of this particular barrel, the voluptuous intensity and near-abyssal depth is precisely what made it irresistible to me. Stewed and dried citrus fruits interplay with the stickiest of fig puddings, furnishing a palate and finish that balances magnificently at full-throttle cask-strength. Chew this slowly after dinner as a fitting finale to any well-lived evening.