Pure Bliss

Remy Martin's Extra Cognac is, to me, an embodiment of pure sensory bliss. With this, I have tasted Remy's entire range of cognacs, from the VS to the Louis XIII, but Remy's Extra has it all. It possesses the complex, layered, mature aromas, taste, and texture that you would expect from a world-class top-shelf (or secure glass case) cognac, and while most of us can't afford to splurge like this very often, it is no Louis XIII in terms of price. It commands reverence but won't make you feel guilty for weeks.

Assuming you give this cognac (and yourself) the respect it deserves and serve it in a tulip-esque crystal glass, the aromas will be phenomenal. It starts beautifully with scents of jasmine, honeysuckle and port, and develops stages of cedar, deep fruit with a touch of orange as your nose travels down into the glass. Never along the way to the base can you detect any shortcomings or dull spots. The base notes consist of rich, powerful (but not overpowering) aromas of nutmeg, caramel, and candied fruits that completely caress your olfactory senses in total harmony.

The texture is pure and silky with an explosion of flavor with even 1 milliliter. The taste immediately overwhelms you with complexity - each sip revealing a new layer of the cognac that your brain strives to keep up with. The finish is very long, lasting around 15 minutes. The finish subsides smoothly and pleasantly, and after about 20 minutes of pleasure, you will be ready for your second sip.

I would recommend Remy Martin's Extra to anyone. I realize that it carries a hefty price tag, but more so than with anything I have come across in the world of fine wine and cognac, the price you pay is truly worth it.