Raynal VSOP

Review #64 - Brandy / Cognac #9 Purchased in a 1L bottle from duty free for 22 euros. The bottle looks more bourbony than brandy, but let's see. Appearance - Deep amber colour, most definitely E150. Nose - Sweet, acidity, white grapes, honey, vanilla, oak, oak spice. Palate - Very fruity initially, honey, creamy...but from the mid-palate it turns oaky and very spicy. The latter faded away towards the finish. Finish - Quite short, with red apples, honey, vanilla, caramel, creaminess. It also has prominent floral accents, slightly soapy even, but very pleasant. After-taste features subtle bitterness, slightly dry, and very clear red grape aroma...the fragrant kind...with orange marmelade. The nose scared me a bit due to the acidity...not great. But the palate and finish in particular are really surprisingly good. For 22 euros per litre is great value!

Further evidence that the quality of brandies doesn't always correlate with their price. Initially, I was surprised that a brandy could be so spicy, and then I noticed its smoothness, its oily texture, and all the intriguing combined flavors. Its aftertaste is what sets it apart and makes it a commendable option. At 22 euros per liter, I will consistently favor it.

Raynal VSOP has a clear, copper appearance, with uniform alcohol legs. The aroma is of distilled white wine, grape leaves, and oak. The flavor is of caramelized sugar, grape leaves, and vanilla. The body is medium, with an oily mouthfeel. Raynal VSOP finishes midway between sweet and dry. RJT

Golden amber. Grape, definitely, along with some grain, freshly cut grass, lemon zest, oak, and apple. Medium sweetness, straightforward, with caramel, oak, and vanilla flavors; and a bit harsh. Not bad at all considering the cost.

Lovely smell, nice honey initial taste, but a little harsh mid taste. Aftertaste very pleasant. Sweet Don't usually like brandy but this is okay. Wouldn't have loads but nice after a few beers

It feels warm as it goes down. The flavors are mild and lack depth. It's not sweet, which I appreciate. This would work well in cocktails.