Maker: Kelt, Nogaro, Gers, France
Grape: Ugni Blanc
Region: Grande Champagne Cognac (not specified on the label of the 50 ml bottle I sampled from)
Age: At least 4 1/2 y/o (VSOP)
ABV: 40%
Michigan state minimum: $71.47
Appearance: Medium copper.
Nose: Oak, Saltwater taffy, golden raisins, Crème brûlée topped with mixed berries.
Palate: Full-bodied and sweet. Caramel apple, burn.
Finish: Complex and long-lasting. Menthol cough drops fellowed by oak, followed by raisins.
Parting words: KELT is what we would call an NDP (Non-distiller producer) product in the bourbon world, but what they call a négociant in Cognac. Monsieur Kelt buys spirit and ages it, in this case on a boat. Like Jefferson’s Ocean bourbon, it’s a silly gimmick, but the end result is pretty good.
This is a solid product all around but the finish is what was most striking. I don’t think I’ve ever had a spirit with a finish close to that. I like it, but I could see myself getting sick of it after a while. $71.47 is an odd price and it’s just about as much as I’d be willing to pay for a whole bottle. Luckily, smaller sizes are available in Michigan and elsewhere, so you can make an informed decision. KELT VSOP is recommended.
Sipology 