Malternative #38 'La Symphonie' Lot 45 1945 Fins Bois Cognac

Selected by independent bottler Malternative Belgium for their 5th anniversary release, this exceptional single-cask expression originates from an undisclosed bouilleur de cru in the Fins Bois terroir. Sourced from the historic 1945 harvest (designated as Lot 45), this cognac matured for nearly eight decades before being bottled at natural cask strength. The clay and limestone soils of Fins Bois give this ancient eau-de-vie an extraordinary harmony of deep candied fruit, floral nectar, dark polished wood, and profound rancio complexity.

Food Pairing: Aged blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola Piccante, high-percentage dark chocolate, roasted duck breast with cherry reduction, walnut tarte, or enjoyed slowly as a contemplative digestif.

Tasting Notes: Deep mahogany amber with rich copper highlights, displaying immense viscosity and slow, heavy legs coating the glass.

Nose: Rich, complex, and highly aromatic, opening with candied orange peel, dried fig, and dark raisin, followed by old leather, cigar box, polished oak, and subtle floral honey intertwined with deep rancio.

Palate: Full-bodied, velvety, and intense on the palate, featuring sweet yellow plum, dried apricot, and dark honey upfront before developing into warm cinnamon, toasted cocoa, liquorice, and cedarwood.

Finish: Long, warm, and remarkably persistent with lingering accents of dried tropical fruit, refined rancio, and gentle oak spice.

Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature in a tulip glass, allowing it to rest and breathe for several minutes before tasting.