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Hardy Cognac VSOP Organic is first, and foremost, a fine VSOP Cognac with all that this entails, and the “organic” designation and recycled packaging that might just add a bit of extra value.

It is common to confuse Maison Hardy—the maker of fine French Cognacs and Aperitifs—with A. Hardy USA. The latter is a distributor that imports dozens of brands into the States, including Maison Hardy Cognacs. We are talking about Maison Hardy here, and they focus on producing a range of Cognacs and two Pineaus, rose and blanc (Pineau is a local French fortified wine … a sweet, “earthy” Sherry-style aperitif with lots of tannin).

Back in the early 1800s, Anthony Hardy—an Englishman—fell in love with northern France and Cognac. After decades of flirting with the region as an importer of Cognac into England, he eventually moved there, changed his name from Anthony to Antoine, and opened up his own Cognac distillation house (a “maison”). Hey … follow your passions, right? Today, Maison Hardy produces two lovely Pineaus and a wide range of Cognacs (do NOT call it Brandy!) from the middle price points all the way up to some truly fantastic artistic expressions arrayed in fine crystal decanters.

Hardy Cognac VSOP Organic is first, and foremost, a fine VSOP Cognac with all that this entails; including the minimum of four years aging in wood according to the legal description (yes, there is a French law on the matter), proper grape varietals, and provenance … it is all in there equal to their “standard” VSOP product. The “Organic” is tagged on to the name because this batch sources their grapes form a certified organic vineyard just up the road from the, well … non-certified one.

So, let’s cut to the chase … what does it taste like? Maison Hardy always does a great job and this is no exception. Hardy Cognac VSOP Organic has a perfumed elegance and refinement with all the floral aromas and purity that connoisseurs look for, and the easy-drinking smoothness that spirit lovers crave with the “organic” designation and recycled packaging that might just add a bit of extra value. You be the judge, but you will not be disappointed by the spirit.

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