Distilled by Decanter
Frapin releases 1992 Cognac
Slowly aged for 26 years, Frapin Millésime 1992 is a limited release of 3,000 bottles. Produced from grapes grown on the company’s 240ha Grande Champagne estate, it was aged in 350-litre new Limousin casks for six months, then for a year in 5- to 15-year-old casks and finished in older barrels. ‘After this kind of ageing, it’s a Cognac that’s not too woody,’ said cellar master Patrice Piveteau. ‘It’s like a firework!’ An inviting, fruit-forward nose is led by red fruits and cedar spice, baked apple, demerara, toasty wood and touches of cream, deeper accents of fig and liquorice bringing balance. The invigorating palate has lots of plump cherry, melon and fig plus tobacco, spice and wood, more citrus-peel, floral complexities and baking spices emerging with air. Frapin Millésime 1992 (40.5%) is not a Cognac for frowning over, it’s one for raising eyebrows and enjoying – resisting a second glass may be a challenge. £145-£160/70cl Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange
The Apex 1000 index, by Rare Whisky 101, shows that pricing of collectable whiskies has risen by well above 500% from 2010 to 2020, outperforming fine wine, gold and the stock markets. But pricing trends can fluctuate.
Specialist retailers or auction houses with a proven track record. The best will have in- depth knowledge and share your ambition for a return on your investment, with the expertise to make it happen – and they are a safer bet when it comes to provenance.
Something you like – because you might end up having to drink it. Bottlings from closed distilleries, limited- edition releases and discontinued expressions are all worth considering.
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