The most distinctive of these single casks is this remarkable 17-year-old, made exclusively from the Folle Blanche grape rather than the more common Ugni Blanc. Once widely planted across France, Folle Blanche fell sharply out of favor after the phylloxera epidemic of the late nineteenth century, as it proved especially vulnerable to the rot and disease that devastated European vineyards. In the modern era, the grape appears occasionally in Armagnac, most often blended with Ugni Blanc or Colombard and only rarely as a single varietal. In Cognac, however, it is exceptionally rare, which is exactly what makes this bottle so special. The nose immediately unfolds with deep plum and chocolate, layered over savory curry spice, banana leaf, Thai basil, molasses, blackberry compote, and sweet pumpernickel. The palate soars with toffee and espresso, cacao, black pepper, cardamom, stewed red fruits, sweet herbs, and burnt orange peel. The finish lingers for what feels like an eternity, weaving through fruit, spice, and wood before finally settling into a cushion of forest moss that gently pulls you back for another sip. This is a glorious expression, and one that is unlikely to be seen again anytime soon.