Nose: Rose hip, linden flower, concentrated tamarind, peach, apricot, pear nectar, Fuji apple, mild pineapple, a touch of honeysuckle, faint sea salt. A subtle leather note is also present. It's a bright, invigorating aroma. [The scent from the empty glass is a light tropical fruit juice]. Palate: Smooth and subtly sweet with a whisper of ammonium salt (rather than sodium) and fresh orchard fruits. The texture is light yet not watery, with diluted honey around the edges. Hints of orange peel, white grape juice, and dried orchard fruits emerge as it develops. You can barely detect the alcohol content, apart from a gentle warmth on swallowing. A minuscule white pepper note appears near the end. Finish: Brief. The gentle, juicy sweetness of the palate transitions into an umami character. Smooth and well-rounded. The aroma is light and delicate but by no means weak, and it slightly resembles a fruit-forward whisky, perhaps a young Glenfiddich. The palate is balanced, showing neither cloying sweetness nor dry astringency. The influence of the barrels is subtle and supportive, barely perceptible. I had heard this had a salty profile, and indeed there is a maritime quality, but if you're accustomed to maritime whiskies, this will seem quite mild. It has a crisp dryness, but above all, it tastes juicy and fresh, with no emphasis on heavy dried grape flavors. A pleasing cognac; while it possesses characteristics that bring whisky to mind, it's certainly not a malt! I'm enjoying it and am curious to see if its freshness endures with oxidation. Two other expressions exist in this Camus "island" collection, with progressively stronger maturation. "Good": 83/100 (3.5 stars)
CAMUS Île de Ré Fine Island
3.56 Decent
Brandy Cognac Cognac No age statement 40% ABV
Tried it?
How was this pour?
Score this bottleRating a bottle takes an account, so your scores follow you and count towards the number everyone else reads.
About this bottle
Located off France's western coast, Île de Ré is an island whose grapes possess a higher natural iodine content than those from the mainland, which contributes to the cognac's character. Fine Island Cognac matures in a very humid cellar within lightly toasted oak barrels.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 11 parsed reviews.
The most recent delivery of 'aromatherapy' items from arrived today. The postal worker seemed curious, inquiring if I was involved in the aromatherapy business. I denied it, stating they were gifts for friends, and hoped she wouldn't ask further questions, as my understanding of aromatherapy is limited to the idea that it involves scented oils for burning! Customs, however, proved less inquisitive, and I encountered no issues there. Regarding the review from cascode, it's quite accurate. This particular item has a somewhat grape-like quality. For me, it's just okay; I prefer a more pronounced cognac character, as this seems to lean towards grappa or a similar spirit. Thanks, Cascode!
I'm unable to form an opinion on its quality. My initial impression was akin to the scent of unwashed, damp socks? Its flavor profile included sea salt, apple, and lemon, with very little body or structure. It lacked smoothness, and the finish was somewhat brief. It felt like drinking Chablis Village, but with an unpleasant odor? It might complement oysters or seafood, but I'd opt for Chablis instead.
Among the finest cognacs I've ever sampled. It brings a tear of joy because it evokes a slightly peated island whisky, just as suggested. A wonderful encounter; eager to try it again.
It's akin to a whiskey-style cognac, with prominent woody notes on the palate and a medium-length finish. I'd rate it 4/5; I wouldn't repurchase it, but it's still rather good.
The aroma is sweet, fruity, with a touch of apricot. The flavor is very subtle, leaving a long, agreeable aftertaste. Subtle hints of whiskey are present. I will purchase it again.
5 more reviews were collected for this bottle. The longest ones are shown first.
Tastes like this
Same style and price bracket, best rated first.