Spirits industry highlights rare cognac and new bourbon blends

In the spirits industry, new releases and rare vintages are drawing attention. In France, a rare 18-year-old cognac from the Île d’Oléron estate by Jean Grosperrin is noted for its maritime qualities and sandalwood notes. This specific vintage may be the property’s last, as the owner retired following the 2007 harvest.

In the United States, Brown-Forman has released ‘Kentucky Boy,’ a premium bourbon blend created to honor master distiller emeritus Chris Morris on his 50th anniversary with the company. The blend combines three of the company’s high-end expressions: Birthday Bourbon, King of Kentucky, and Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. The product was developed by assistant master distiller Caleb Trigo and master distiller Elizabeth McCall.