Already widely considered as one of the most premium, luxury spirits on the market, when cognac maison Louis XIII reveals an entirely new Rare Cask, the industry takes note. Named Rare Cask 42.1 after its 42.1% ABV, this ultra-exclusive Louis XIII Cognac all comes from a single tierçon, selected by Baptiste Loiseau for its unique aromatic profile. Each one stands alone as a distinct expression of Louis XIII that has never been experienced before.
An important highlight during the career of any cellar master, Baptiste Loiseau, cellar master at Louis XIII has had the unusual privilege of revealing two of these rare casks.
“While the singularity of a Rare Cask rests on a miracle given by nature, the know-how that is necessary to its creation was born from a transmission of an art, from generation to generation, where each cellar master perpetuates the gestures of his predecessors,” said Baptiste Loiseau.
Taking things a step further, this special release is also the first edition of the Rare Cask Collection to be released as a ritual set. Owners will receive the black crystal decanter, accompanied by crystal glasses ornated with black quatrefoils and a serving pipette that features a black medallion, signifying the rarity of this limited release of only 775 decanters, each priced at $52,500.
Recently Elite Traveler spoke with Louis XIII cellar master Baptiste Loiseau, to discover more about Rare Cask 42.1 and why its release is a key milestone in the history of Louis XIII.
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Could you share the story of how you discovered the Rare Cask 42.1? What stood out about this particular tierçon that made it so extraordinary?
When I discovered the eaux-de-vie from this cask, I felt it had a distinct expression that had to be nurtured over Time on its own. Blending Louis XIII Cognac is envisioning multiple possibilities in which the precious eaux-de-vie will interact and achieving the final signature profile. With this single cask, there was a new and never seen before expression of Louis XIII. It expressed distinctive floral notes of rose, peony and lilac, but also fresh fruity notes including passion fruit, mango and pineapple. This aromatic profile was meaningful to me as it carried me back to my childhood to very vivid memories.
LOUIS XIII is already known as the pinnacle of cognac. What are the aspects of Rare Cask 42.1 that help to elevate it beyond your signature release?
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Rare Cask 42.1 is a wonder of both time and nature, that showcases a rare effect in the aging process of our eaux-de-vie. It is a unique occurrence that creates a distinct expression of Louis XIII Cognac that has never been encountered before – and is unlikely to happen again. The singularity of this cognac makes it incredibly special, and I am thrilled to share Louis XIII Rare Cask 42.1 with the world.
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How do the flavors, aromas and textures differ from the signature Louis XIII profile?
Rare Cask 42.1 presents unexpected and distinctive floral notes of rose, peony and lilac on the nose, which expand to reveal deeper, darker aromas of wax, nuts and undergrowth. Pleasingly fresh on the palate, Rare Cask 42.1 offers tasting notes of exotic fruits such as pineapple, passion fruit and orange blossom – joined by aromatic herbal notes such as thyme and rosemary. On the finish, we find more subtle notes of chocolate, tobacco and iris.
The name highlights a precise alcohol content of 42.1%. What is the significance of the ABV content?
When I sensed that this rare cask’s profile reached its peak, the cask indicated a 42.1% ABV. Including the ABV in the name highlights the singularity of this special cask, a wonder of nature and time that I discovered and accompanied until it was ready to be revealed.
The art of cognac production is in the assemblage of so many different eaux-de-vie. How did you find managing a single cask to ensure it reached the standard a Louis XIII drinker expects?
The challenge with blending Louis XIII Cognac lies in the variability of our terroir, and consequently of the eaux-de-vie. Each cask holds a unique expression of our terroir and a particular harvest. Predicting how these individual elements will mature and interact over decades is a constant balancing act.
When I sensed that this particular cask was different, I listened to my instincts and favored emotion [over] science. I knew the timing was right. It’s a delicate balance between patience and intuition, and Rare Cask 42.1 represents a moment when elements aligned perfectly.
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What do you want or expect drinkers to take away from experiencing Rare Cask 42.1?
Tasting Rare Cask 42.1 is a journey of the senses. Rare Cask 42.1 is very powerful, floral, ‘velvety’ and powdery, with a rich and complex aromatic profile. Rare Cask 42.1 offers a symphony of flavors, including notes of rose, peony and lilac combined with exotic fruit and aromatic herbal notes.
The finish is remarkably long, leaving behind an unforgettable experience on one’s palate.
When do you anticipate the release of another Rare Cask? Do you have your eye on any other exceptional tierçons in the LOUIS XIII cellars?
The singularity of a Rare Cask discovery rests entirely on a miracle given by time and nature. It is completely unpredictable, and I do not have control over such a spectacular, rare occurrence. With that in mind, my focus is to maintain consistency and ensure quality for the next generation of Louis XIII Cellar Masters. My responsibility is to meticulously care for our eaux-de-vie, which is the most important element to pass on to future generations.
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