1991 Frapin Cognac Millesime 20 yo 41.2%

1991 was an infamous year in Cognac because spring frost eradicated much of the harvest. But this vintage for Frapin is exquisite, bottled after aging for 20 years in dry cellars to highlight finesse and elegance. Light amber and light-bodied, the depth of aromas and flavor comes as a surprise. At first there are scents of candied citrus and nougat, but returning to the glass, there’s an entire flower garden on the nose, along with hints of attractive pipe tobacco and licorice. On the palate, a delicate balance of honey and spice, of creaminess and nuttiness, of gingerbread and cedar, with a persistent walnut-rancio finish. At just 20 years, this singular, hard-to-find vintage illustrates how great Cognac can be at all ages. (41.2% abv) 98 points