Martell VS Cognac, first released more than 150 years ago under the Three Star designation. Aged at least two years in French oak and bottled at 40% ABV, it typically sells for about $32. Maison Martell distills clear wines without lees, a house style that emphasizes bright fruit character.
Palate entry is supple, semisweet and caramel-like; the elegant, perfectly balanced midpalate offers a pruny/figgy flavor accented with tastes of baking spices and candied almonds.
To be sure, this Cognac is intended as a cocktail ingredient foremost, but it drinks just fine by itself. In fact, while it’s not at all complex, it’s awfully hard to put down — and one of the best values in Cognac.