The Frapin family has been in the Cognac region since the late 1200s. Currently they control 240 hectares of vine planted in “crumbly chalk.” Each decision is made, “by the nose,” master distiller Patrice Piveteau told me when I visited. “I don’t like Cognac or wine with just one element, like wood,” he says, “for me Cognac is a story.” And this single vineyard Cognac, coming from a Grand Champagne region, indeed tells a story. The nose is full of dried fruit, marzipan, hazelnut, nougat and a prevailing rancio (a nutty buttery element that comes forth after years of aging). On the palate there are notes of toasted almonds, orange zest, apricot, spice and wood, some wildflower and a hint of sweetness, all balanced by the four elements of Cognac: wood, spice, floral and nut. This Cognac checks each and every box.
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Frapin
Spirit Type – Cognac
Other Designation – Fontpinot XO
County of Origin – France
ABV% – 41
Price – $125 (700 ml)
Score – 94 Points
Date Reviewed – 4/25/22