Kelt Commodore Cognac has caught my attention recently with its unique aging process and complex flavor profile. Originally from France, this cognac is known for combining the best qualities of Grande Champagne VSOP, Napoleon, and XO, making it stand out among other cognacs on the market. In this review, I’ll be sharing my personal experience with Kelt Commodore Cognac and discuss its distinct characteristics.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Kelt cognacs is the way they’re aged at sea. Each Limousin oak barrel of Kelt Cognac Tour du Monde Commodore goes on a three-month sea cruise, harkening back to the tradition of shipping all cognac by barrels. This ocean maturation process has a profoundly magical effect on the cognac, as the salt air and ocean’s motion contribute to its smoothness and a remarkably broad palette of tastes and aromas.
Kelt Cognac Commodore Overview
Product History
When it comes to unique experiences, Kelt Commodore Cognac is a true delight for the palate. The history of Kelt Cognac can be traced back to their unique ocean maturation process, a nod to the tradition of shipping all cognac by barrels that continued into the early 20th century. I recall how Kelt sends each of its Limousin oak barrels of Cognac Tour du Monde Commodore on a three-month sea cruise to reach back for the profoundly magical effect the salt air and the ocean’s motion have on a cognac.
To give you a better understanding, Kelt Commodore Cognac is crafted to combine the most interesting qualities of a Grande Champagne VSOP, Napoleon, and XO. This blend is exceptionally complex and showcases a remarkably broad palette of tastes and aromas. It relies heavily on the master blender’s expertise and the quality of grapes used – primarily the Ugni Blanc variety, which is quite popular for cognac production.
The region where Kelt Cognac is produced is essential as well. Grande Champagne Cognac, for instance, is widely regarded as one of the finest, and in this case, the result is a smooth, exquisite drink that is bound to impress even the most discerning palates.
Price Range
This fantastic cognac can be found in various outlets such as Drizly, and usually falls within an affordable price range for a luxury spirit at around $150-$300. It’s worth mentioning, though, that prices may vary depending on the retailer and location.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening a bottle of Kelt Commodore Cognac, I immediately noticed the delightful aroma of oak, particularly from the Limousin oak barrels used in the aging process. As I took a deeper whiff, I discerned subtle notes of vanilla and ripe fruit, as well as delicate floral scents like jasmine and honeysuckle.
Flavor
The moment I tasted this French cognac, the smoothness and richness of flavors intrigued me. The most prevalent tastes were that of oak, derived from the Grande Champagne region’s Limousin oak barrels. However, this didn’t overpower the other lovely flavors present. As I savored each sip, I detected hints of cedar, walnuts, and vanilla. It felt like a harmonious blend of flavors that kept me wanting more.
Finish
The finish of the Kelt Commodore Cognac impressed me with its long-lasting warmth and complexity. Oak and vanilla remained prominent throughout, but delicate fruit notes also made an appearance, reminiscent of the aroma I experienced earlier. The smoothness persisted, leaving a delightful aftertaste that was both comforting and fulfilling.
Rating
Personally, I would rate the Kelt Commodore Cognac quite highly as it delivered a fantastic combination of oaky and fruity flavors, with a touch of vanilla to round it all off. As a friendly suggestion for those who might try it for the first time, I advise enjoying this cognac neat or with a tiny bit of water to truly appreciate the flavors and aromas it offers.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
When it comes to finding the best mixers for Kelt Commodore Cognac, I like to consider the spirit’s unique characteristics. Distilled from Ugni Blanc grapes and aged in Limousin oak barrels, Kelt Commodore has a complex flavor profile that combines elements of Grande Champagne VSOP, Napoleon, and XO. With this in mind, I suggest sticking to simple mixers that allow the cognac’s flavors to shine. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Soda water: Adds a refreshing effervescence without overpowering the cognac.
- Tonic water: The slight bitterness complements the cognac’s sweet, fruity notes.
- Ginger ale or ginger beer: The spicy kick pairs well with the warmth and oakiness of Kelt Commodore.
Cocktail Suggestions
While Kelt Commodore Cognac can certainly be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, it also makes a fantastic base for cocktails. Here are a couple of my personal favorites:
- Cognac Highball: In a tall glass filled with ice, mix equal parts Kelt Commodore Cognac and soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon twist.
- Cognac Moscow Mule: Combine 2 oz Kelt Commodore Cognac, 1/2 oz lime juice, and 4 oz ginger beer in a copper mug filled with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
Food Pairings
Kelt Commodore Cognac’s complex and rich flavors make it a versatile spirit that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some classic pairings to enjoy with your Kelt Commodore Cognac:
- Cheese: Aged, hard cheeses like Gouda, Comté, and Aged Cheddar will stand up to the spirit’s robust flavors.
- Dark chocolate: The bitter and sweet combination of dark chocolate creates a harmonious balance with the cognac’s fruity notes.
- Charcuterie: Cured, salty meats like prosciutto, soppressata, and salami will complement the spirit’s warmth and oakiness.
Conclusion
In my experience, Kelt Commodore Cognac is a unique and delightful spirit that is well worth exploring. As a product of the Kelt company, this cognac benefits from their commitment to uncompromising quality and attention to detail. The ocean-aged process adds a uniquely smooth, complex character to the drink that can be appreciated by both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
As a Grande Champagne cognac, Kelt Commodore is made from grapes grown in the top-rated cru area of the Cognac region. This contributes to the refined and elegant taste profile expected from such a prestigious designation.
For those who might be concerned about the Proposition 65 warning, it’s essential to note that it is a mandatory label for all alcoholic beverages sold in California, due to trace amounts of chemicals naturally occurring during the fermentation process. It is not unique to Kelt Commodore Cognac or any other specific product.
While Kelt Commodore may not be the most budget-friendly option out there, I believe it is well worth the investment for those seeking a high-quality cognac. Its exceptional smoothness and range of flavors make it a fantastic choice for sipping neat or enjoying in a cocktail.
So, as a friendly recommendation, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure into the world of cognac, Kelt Commodore should undoubtedly be on your list to try. Cheers!