Narsai David Estates Alembix Grappa De Venus

Overall assessment: 11/23 Work was terrible. Many people were let go. Despite emerging unscathed, the situation was upsetting and infuriating. Returning home with that unpleasant feeling, I decided it was the perfect time to open this grappa, anticipating it would also leave a bad taste (as grappa often does). Distilled in 1991, it's remarkable that it's still available. This seems like a considerable aging period for grappa. Appearance: Exhibits surprisingly robust legs, which is appealing, as is its pleasant straw hue. Aroma: Sweet, with a dry barrel character. Unexpected. It's not nearly as vegetal and pungent as I had anticipated, though some of those notes are present. Also, hints of rubber and pepper. I'm not completely captivated, but it's quite pleasant. Palate: Dry and viscous. Significantly less sweet than the aroma suggested and much more pungent. Notes of rubber, petrol, vegetal funk, licorice, and white pepper. There's a trace of that flavorless sweet gummy substance found in the center of Mike and Ikes. Eventually, a very faint fruitiness emerges, like the mildest hint of orange and strawberry. Finish: A lingering sweetness reminiscent of Mike & Ikes, with an oily texture that introduces bitter notes, including licorice, white pepper, and rubber. Interestingly, this might be the best aspect. I'm not enjoying this, but I didn't really expect to. It has been an interesting experience, however. The flavors are delicate, sometimes becoming muddled. It's quite complex, but not actually bad. I don't think I'd rate it below a 10, perhaps a 9. It's definitely not a 16, and I doubt it's a 15. It's a close call. That subtle hint of sweet fruity candy really elevates it. I'm leaning towards an 11. I almost gave it a 12. It's particularly difficult to assign a rating. It's certainly worth trying, though I don't regret purchasing a small bottle. Comparing briefly to Dudognon Reserve (10/23), I detect some surprising and pleasing gooey toasted marshmallow. The Dudognon offers more complexity and a bolder flavor; at least, it's less subtle. This grappa is smoother and slightly more savory. It's an unusual comparison. I'll settle on an 11.