The first time I tasted the Blossoming Auld Sherry was at a wonderful little bistro in Levernois outside of Beaune called Du Bord De L’Eau. After a wonderful meal at this exceptional casual restaurant, the director of Couvreur Jean Arnauld suggested we finish the night with a taste of something special from his exceptional collection. We could have taken the exceptionally expensive vintage offerings, but he recommended this special little treat. From the moment I put my nose to the glass I was transfixed. Of course, I know Couvreur’s style and what to expect, but this was unlike anything I’d yet come across. It was truly like diving head first into the finest Sherry, but at 90 proof!!! The nose exhibits an intoxicating bouquet of plum preserves, old exotic wood, fresh leather, tobacco and the intricately carved wooden pipe to pack it. The palate is SO smooth. When someone says they like something “smooth,” it’s such a vague notion, and difficult quality to guarantee in a product, but THIS is what they’re talking about. The density of the fruit remains on the palate, but it’s pointed with wonderful dried citrus and sweet herbal notes. This is the real deal, and while not inexpensive, it out-performs its price point by a mile and then some. Imagine having a bottle of sherry that never goes bad, which you can sip by the ounce and clocks in at 45%! You’d never stop, so you know, you shouldn’t. We’re the exclusive source for this product in California and have been for some time. The current batch is just as delicious as ever, but offers even more powerful sherry character and an even darker color. There’s still nothing else in the store like it. An absolute legend.