DOMAINE TARIQUET BAS ARMAGNAC VSOP FRANCE 700ML

Same grape makeup, 5 to 7 years old. A little sultrier and more rounded, but the same heavy bourbon barrel influence dominates on the VSOP. More spice and more raisin on the nose, with a clearer nuttiness throughout. Rounded vanilla elements give the brandy a more enduring sweetness and a stronger sense of fruit on the tongue, with a lush caramel overtone that pushes into the gently raisiny finish. Buttery notes of banana bread and gingerbread spice really prop up and lengthen the denouement, elevating this bottling well above the only slightly cheaper VS expression.