Courvoisier debuts mizunara-finished Cognac
Beam Suntory-owned Courvoisier has released 500 bottles of its Mizunara bottling, crafted by two of the brand's chief blenders.
Retailing for US$2,000 per bottle, the Cognac was made using Grand Champagne, a 'prestigious' cru from the Cognac region. It was created by the brand's sixth chief blender Patrice Pinet and fifth-generation chief blender of the House of Suntory, Shinji Fukuyo.
"Memorable blends begin in the imaginations of those who dare to dream them. I have always been intrigued by the scarcity and uniqueness of Japanese mizunara oak and honoured by the opportunity to work with the legendary wood and the incredibly talented Shinji Fukuyo of House of Suntory," said Pinet.
"We are living in two different countries with two different cultures, but deeply connected in our values and respect for our artistry.
Courvoisier Mizunara was aged in French oak barrels, then transferred to mizunara casks.
Pinet and Fukuyo discovered common aspects of 'precise' oak selection and ageing in both Cognac and Japanese whisky, in order to create Courvoisier Mizunara.
Pinet added: "I knew the mizunara cask was an unconventional choice for Courvoisier and together with Shinji, we saw the potential for the notoriously temperamental wood to enhance the unique characteristics of the exceptional cognac and complement the Maison's signature floral house style."
The Cognac represents a 'visionary blend' that unites craft, culture and people. The brand describes the release as a testament to its commitment to crafting Cognac whilst drawing inspiration from Japanese mizunara oak.
"It has been an exciting journey working alongside Patrice to discover a new, unique taste profile of Courvoisier using Japanese mizunara oak," said Fukuyo.
"I have always been fascinated by experimenting with flavours through innovation, and I'm very excited to have taken part in the development of Courvoisier Mizunara and to help create something never before tasted."
Each bottle is numbered, and will be available in select countries.
Earlier this year, Courvoisier partnered with acclaimed contemporary fashion designer Daniel W Fletcher on a limited edition packaging design. In February, the brand debuted a new look and global campaign.
