Review: Kirkland Cognac VS
Kirkland Cognac VS as the name would suggest is a private label cognac sold exclusively at Costco. It was just released, and joins Kirkland Cognac XO just in time for the holiday season. The XO is sold in 750ml bottles while the VS is sold in a 1.75 liter bottle. Through the years I’ve learned the low price is not a reflection of the quality of Kirkland brands. They strive to only put the Kirkland name on premium products. That said Kirkland Cognac VS appears to be crafted at Maison Louis Royer, a fifth generation family cognac producer that has been crafting cognac for over 170 years. Their cellars are located near the Charente river. The damp conditions help give their cognac its round, smooth, and unique character. Kirkland Cognac VS is made from 100% Ugni Blanc grapes harvested in September and October. The eaux-de-vie comes from up to 5 different wine growing regions. These crus including Bois Ordinaires, Bon Bois, Fins Bois, Petite Champagne, and Grand Champagne. Different proportions are used depending on the Lot. After a double distillation in Charentais copper stills the wine spirit is aged in French oak barrels for a minimum 2 years. The spirit is blended in oak casks before bottling. The aroma leads with plum, and Limousin oak. Additional time brings out citrus, fig, baking spice, and tobacco. The sweet cinnamon and plum entry builds to a vanilla, citrus, grape, and toasted oak peak. It fades with white grape and orange and finishes lightly dry with toasted French oak, cinnamon, pepper, vanilla, Raisinets, and orange zest.
Made in France
40% Alcohol
Score: 91
Award: Gold Medal