Distiller Notes
2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Gold Medal Winner
Combining old-world style with new-world boldness, Martell Blue Swift is the first-ever VSOP cognac finished in bourbon casks. Hints of plum and candied fruits mix with the subtle bite of Kentucky bourbon for a one-of-a-kind flavor.
Proof: 80
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
An 80-proof eau-de-vie de vin made of 100% Martell Cognac finished in Bourbon casks from Kentucky. With the colors of an amber sunset and dark russet, aromas of violets, plums, and mocha are gentle and serene. The palate is broad-shouldered and savory, with notes of cigar, new leather, and cedar. The fruit comes in secondarily, with grilled peaches, coffee, and black cherry. The vanilla finish confirms the bourbon barrel influence and keeps the peppered fruit extended on the tongue.
Widely regarded as the finest and most complex grape-based spirit in the world, Cognac follows rigorously strict production guidelines. It is made exclusively of wine—most commonly from Ugni Blanc—from the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions surrounding the town of Cognac in southwestern France. After a second distillation in antique copper pot stills (called charentais), the spirit is transferred to French oak barrels and aged a minimum of two years (VS). Cognac is classified by both age and region (Cru). The Grande Champagne Cru and Petite Champagne Cru, both having shallow limestone soils, are the most respected.