This smooth and creamy Cognac blend is made with eaux-de-vie aged for at least five years in Limousin oak, which is significantly longer than the minimum requirement for a VS Cognac. The Hardy VS Red Corner Fine Cognac is a great release from this renowned Cognac house and offers excellent value for money. It is made from Ugni Blanc grapes harvested in the underrated Fins Bois region, which has smaller patches of chalk in its soil. This produces eaux-de-vie that are full-bodied, supple, and fruity. The English wine and spirits merchant Anthony Hardy decided to become a Cognac trader in 1863 and changed his name to Antoine to sound more French. He established himself as a distiller and dealer of Cognac and quickly gained recognition for the quality of his products. Despite the phylloxera epidemic, Hardy managed to expand his business and build a strong supply of eaux-de-vie. Today, the House of Hardy is run by two women, Bénédicte and Sophie Hardy, who continue to promote their family brand in North America and Europe. The Cognac has an antique amber color and a nose of honey, lively fruit, baked plums, caramel, and mixed nuts. On the palate, it is smooth and easygoing, with flavors of stewed fruits, toasted oak, dried orange peel, Brazil nuts, and light florals.