The historic Courvoisier cognac house seeks to re-introduce itself with an innovative blend of its signature cognac and premium French red wine grapes. Brand Manager Mallika Monteiro touts the new Rosé variety as the first drink of its kind, saying, “We are thrilled to add Courvoisier Rosé to the Courvoisier family and offer consumers a new, fun and refreshing twist on cognac.”
Ms. Monteiro went on to say on Courvoisier’s behalf, “we are excited to expand our portfolio with a refreshing drink that will broaden our base and appeal to a larger variety of consumers.” In some ways, we are relieved to hear this. The National Liquor Examiner featured a private tasting of this spirit before an audience comprised of long-time cognac enthusiasts, casual drinkers and binary mixers, as well as those who dutifully avoid dark spirits altogether. As Courvoisier had hoped, the latter two groups appreciated its noticeable fruit profiles and smooth finish. One taster in the former group commented, “Something is missing” as he expected the familiar warmth and bite that accompanied all his previous cognac experiences. Other serious cognac drinkers noted that they could not find the “flame” in the snifter and expressed concerns about its color (“is it due to the added red wine or is it simply food coloring?”). This liqueur is very different from anything we have tasted, true. The real question: is it good different or bad different?
The jury has returned on Courvoisier Rosé and the National Liquor Examiner declares it a win. Cognac cocktails have been gaining popularity over the past few years. Indeed, certain mixologists are now treating cognac more like rum (which, in our opinion, is lamentable). Courvoisier Rosé, however, tries hard to preserve the mature complexity of the eau-de-vie in its new easy-to-drink variety. Here, Courvoisier has already done the “mixing,” enabling us to pour a congenial and approachable spirit straight from the bottle for a change. Served on the rocks, it is downright refreshing. We do agree that this endeavor will introduce the brand to a new segment of the drinking public. However, we also expect that it will hold the interest of loyal drinkers of Courvoisier’s traditional varieties, rather than alienate them. Many cognac drinkers resort to another spirit when the weather warms or when they desire a more fresh tasting experience. Now that Courvoisier has both possibilities within its range, connoisseurs can let down their hair without straying far from home.
Courvoisier Rosé is 36 proof. Please enjoy responsibly, and uniquely!
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