Cape Heritage, Sweets, Fortifieds and Spirits
Timed Online Auction, 7 - 14 August 2023
Cape Heritage
About this Item
Indulge in a piece of history with the exquisite 1811 Napoléon Grande Fine Champagne Imperiale. This historic vintage boasts a Glass 'N' Shoulder bottle and hails from the esteemed Fine Champagne region. Its rich, complex flavors and smooth finish make it a treasured addition for collectors.
Cognac Grande Fine Champagne is Cognac made from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne cru. There is no legal or official distinction that separates Grande Fine Champagne from Grande Champagne but, since 1928, the term "fine" has been officially sanctioned for use with eau de vie produced under France's controlled appellations.
Perhaps one of the rarest finds, this bottle represents an important time in history. It was not only the year that the town of Cognac received Napoleon, but also the year that his second wife, Marie Louise gave birth to his son.
Napoléon Cognac was recreated by Couvoisier in 1910. It is now a Fine Champagne cognac (a classification that didn't exist in 1811) and is made from blend of Grande and Petite Champagne cognacs, some matured for up to 20 years. The terms 'Grande' and 'Petite' Champagne are a reference to the classification of the areas where the Gognac grapes (the Ugni Blanc variety) are grown.
As well as being an important historical item, this bottle will almost certainly still drink extremely well. Cognacs with significant age develop rich buttery caramel characteristics as well as great depth and warmth.
Provenance
Private Client