Branson (together with Le Chemin du Roi Champagne) is a part of the Sire Spirits model, which is famously owned by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. Branson Cognac is obtainable in 4 expressions, all of which we acquired for evaluation. Able to get began?
All are 80 proof.
Branson Cognac Phantom – Primarily a VS bottling, that is sourced from vineyards within the Borderies and Fin Bois areas, after which aged for no less than 2 years. Very fruity on the nostril, with a mixture of applesauce and creme brulee notes in proof. Loads of vanilla on each nostril and palate, with some chunky barrel notes constructing because the sweetness slowly fades. Flippantly nutty on the end, however in any other case closely sugary, albeit innocuous on the entire. A transparent club-centric mixer choice. B / $50 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Branson Cognac Royal – Aged 5 years minimal, so roughly a VSOP, with eaux-de-vie sourced primarily from Petit Champagne and Borderies. Extra complexity right here, with much less upfront sweetness and notes of cola, milk chocolate, and vanilla extra evident on the expressive nostril. Flippantly floral components emerge after a while in glass, with extra evident on the palate. The vanilla assault results in a physique infused with notes of candy tea, a pinch of allspice, and gentle notes of lavender and linen. A reasonably basic VSOP-style Cognac, it’s fairly gentle on the entire and in addition innocuous, albeit for various causes than the Phantom bottling. Last judgment: Completely nice. B+ / $60 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Branson Cognac VSOP Grande Champagne – This expression is aged a minimal of 4 years, “with the bulk as much as 7 years,” however is comprised of 100% Grande Champagne eaux-de-vie. The distinction vs. Royal is important and fascinating: It is a rather more savory brandy, with some earthiness, extra intense floral notes, and a grind of pepper on the nostril. Extra oak affect appears to be within the combine, too. The palate continues the theme, with turned earth knowledgeable by notes of recent cola, vanilla, and nutmeg. Right here the perfumy florals dissipate, nevertheless, changed by some crimson berry notes and a pinch of cinnamon. A brown sugar character offers the end a definite and never unwelcome sweetness, successfully tempering the savory components on show, although notes of baking spice linger on the end. B+ / $70 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Branson Cognac XO Grande Champagne – The highest tier of Branson is that this 100% Grande Champagne Cognac, aged for no less than 10 years, with a number of the eaux-de-vie over 25 years previous. Right here we have now what acquits itself as a basic, previousish Cognac expertise. Whereas by no means overt with complexity, the brandy layers in notes of tanned leather-based, loads extra baking spice (heavy with cloves), and a stronger oak affect — all atop notes of light apple, pear, and a touch of Meyer lemon. The palate is surprisingly on the racy facet in comparison with the opposite Branson bottlings, maybe as a result of it’s much less candy, letting the alcohol shine a bit extra clearly. Notes of coconut, lemon curd, and vanilla caramels are all in attendance, with a dusting of spice field and wilted flowers on prime. No complaints right here, although this XO by no means breaks any noteworthy new floor. A- / $240 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Branson Cognac XO Grande Champagne
$240
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