Overall (88)

Audry Mémorial feels like one of those bottles that just fits into my weeknight rotation when I want something with a bit more backbone, but not too showy.

Aroma

On the nose I'm picking up a steady wave of apple and honey, with a background hint of coffee that keeps things grounded. Nothing feels overdone or perfumed, which I always prefer. If anything, I wish there was just a touch more fruit popping out, but it's balanced nicely by the caramel edge.

Taste

Sipping brings in more caramel and apple right away there's that gentle pepper warmth as it opens up. The oak shows itself but doesn't overpower, maybe that's from both Limousin and Tronçais casks playing together. Some tobacco comes out mid-palate if I let it linger, which adds depth without getting heavy.

Finish

The finish is medium in length and hangs on to some spiced coffee and tobacco flavors, fading out clean rather than syrupy or cloying.

Overall (78)

Courvoisier VS is a pretty solid entry-level cognac, especially when you keep in mind that prestige isn't what's in the glass.

Aroma

The nose lands right in the orchard for me, with apple and pear upfront, plus just a little vanilla sweetness riding along. There's some caramel if you let it sit, though nothing too heavy or syrupy. Maybe a faint floral edge if you really look for it, mostly it's about the fruit.

Taste

The taste is straightforward but pleasant: more apple and pear, with vanilla and honey giving some roundness. The oak is present but doesn't overwhelm, which I appreciate, sometimes VS can go too woody but this one pulls back just enough. Not wildly complex, but it feels balanced enough for what it is.

Finish

Finish is on the short side, which honestly doesn't surprise me here