Sazerac de Forge and Fils has taken another step toward reclaiming its once global reputation with the release of three new, high-end cognacs.
The trail-blazing brand popularized cognac in both Europe and America in the 18th and 19th centuries, and is the inspiration behind the original Sazerac cocktail. Its influence faded after the phylloxera epidemic wiped out its market share, and even today, most bartenders will serve a Sazerac with rye whiskey instead.
In 2019, Sazerac (the international drinks giant behind Buffalo Trace) acquired Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac with the aim of reproducing the pioneering spirit in its original pre- phylloxera style. That encompasses 220 acres of organically cultivated Grande Champagne vineyards, which is bolstered by aged cognacs sourced from other producers.
The new editions included an XO, a single-vintage from Grande Champagne, and a 50-year-old blend of three eaux-de-vie distilled in 1970, 1971, and 1974. All are small-batch releases blended to recapture cognac as it was in its so-called ‘golden age’, when grapes were grown without fertilizer and the individual terroirs of Cognac played a bigger role in shaping the liquid’s flavor.
“At Sazerac de Forge, every expression is crafted with care to showcase the unique character of its carefully selected eaux-de-vie,” said cellar master Denis Lahouratate. “Our blends are patiently shaped over time, developing complexity and depth. Others are released as vintages, capturing their singular qualities. In every case, the goal is the same: a Cognac that reveals individuality and artistry.”
Here are the details of each new expression:
Sazerac de Forge XO
Standing as the most accessible of the range, the new XO is bottled at an approachable 43% ABV and is priced at $150.
Sazerac de Forge Grande Champagne Vintage 2000
A first single vintage for the reborn domaine, this non-blended cognac comes from a single harvest distilled in 2000. Bottled at 44.8%, the suggested retail price is $450.
Sazerac de Forge 50-Year-Old
Blended from just three eaux-de-vie, distilled in 1970, 1971, and 1974, this 50-year-old cognac is both extraordinarily rare and extraordinarily expensive. Its retail price of $4,000 puts it in the same price bracket as Louis XIII.
