Maker: Tessendier & Fils, Cognac, Charente, France
Age category: VS (at least 2 y/o)
ABV: 40%
Michigan state minimum: $37
Appearance: Medium copper.
Nose: Raisins, toasted oak, cola, alcohol.
Palate: Mild and sweet. Sugared dates, grape soda, alcohol.
Finish: sweetened raisins, lavender, burn.
Mixed: Sucessful in every cocktail I tried it in: B & B, French 75, Phoebe Snow and a sidecar.
Parting words: Tessendier is a medium-sized Cognac house that also produces Park and Grand Breuil. It’s family-owned and they do own some of their own vineyards, but from what I can tell, they a lot buy from elsewhere too. Park is best known in the US, but Compagnère has a presenence as well, although it’s not offered in the same bewildering number of variations as its stablemate. Campagnère comes in VS, VSOP, XO and the NAS Prestige.
Most VS cognacs I’ve had have been innoffensive, a few have been rough. This one is fruity and pleasant. It’s not complex, but it’s a refreshing after dinner pour and is wonderful in cocktails. Price is good too. Campagnère VS is recommeded.
Sipology 