Editors’ Note

Baptiste Loiseau became the LOUIS XIII Cellar Master in 2014. Just age 34 at the time of his appointment, he became the youngest ever Cellar Master of LOUIS XIII. Growing up in the Cognac region, Loiseau has had a respect and understanding of the complex nature of cognac from a young age. He originally studied agronomy, the science of soil, with plans to specialize in winemaking in Bordeaux. Fate eventually led him back to his hometown where he joined Maison Rémy Martin in 2007.

Cellar Brief

Time is at the heart of LOUIS XIII (us.louisxiii-cognac.com). The raw materials and each decanter represent the life achievement of generations of Cellar Masters who rely on the mastery of their predecessors and successors to preserve the taste of LOUIS XIII throughout time. Created in 1874, LOUIS XIII is one of the world’s most prestigious cognac brands. It is made from a blend of up to 1,200 individual eaux-de-vie, using grapes grown in Grande Champagne, encased in a unique decanter.

What is the history of LOUIS XIII Cognac RARE CASK collection?

The legacy of LOUIS XIII Cognac RARE CASK collection begins as a journey through time and terroir. Each limited edition represents a unique moment in LOUIS XIII’s history, and an exceptionally rare occurrence in the life of a LOUIS XIII Cellar Master. The uncovering of a RARE CASK happens when a LOUIS XIII Cellar Master carefully identifies a particular tierçon (traditional wooden barrel) with a standout aromatic profile. This discovery is followed by attention and intuition, with the eaux-de-vie watched over and tasted through their ageing until they reach their fullest aromatic potential. A singular RARE CASK tierçon highlights a distinct expression and showcases the savoir-faire and intuition of the LOUIS XIII Cellar Master. These exceptional releases celebrate LOUIS XIII Cognac’s commitment to preserving and perpetuating heritage, magnifying characteristics of LOUIS XIII organoleptic profile along with remaining different from anything LOUIS XIII has or will likely ever release again.

RARE CASK 43.8 was released in 2009 by previous Cellar Master Pierrette Trichet, and RARE CASK 42.6 in 2013. For the third time in history, in an unexpected departure from the ordinary passage of time, RARE CASK 42.1 has been made available globally.

Will you highlight LOUIS XIII Cognac’s RARE CASK 42.1?

RARE CASK 42.1 is the ultimate expression of LOUIS XIII Cognac, and one that I carry close to my heart. RARE CASK 42.1 was discovered from a single tierçon that stood out for its exceptional qualities. This RARE CASK highlights the uniqueness of our craft, through a distinct organoleptic profile and a unique 42.1 percent ABV – unlike anything released from LOUIS XIII before. RARE CASK 42.1 is a wonder of nature and time – one that is so unique and special to offer only 775 (the precise number of decanters this tierçon produced) globally – and I’m thrilled to have led to its discovery.

How did you know that the timing was right for LOUIS XIII Cognac RARE CASK 42.1?

The decision to release RARE CASK 42.1 is a result of both intuition and savoir-faire. As the Cellar Master, it’s essential to closely watch over the aging of our eaux-de-vie. When I sensed that this particular cask had fully reached its aromatic expression, I knew the timing was right. It’s a delicate balance between patience and intuition, and RARE CASK 42.1 represents a moment when everything aligned perfectly.

What can people expect when tasting LOUIS XIII Cognac RARE CASK 42.1?

Tasting RARE CASK 42.1 is a journey of the senses. You can expect an extremely refined and harmonious cognac, with a rich and complex aromatic profile. RARE CASK 42.1 offers a symphony of flavors, including notes of dried roses, honey, leather, and a remarkable freshness with hints of exotic notes on the palate. The finish is remarkably long, leaving behind exceptional notes and an unforgettable experience on one’s palate.

How do LOUIS XIII Cognac RARE CASK limited editions reflect the emotions and feelings of the Cellar Master?

These releases reflect generations of cellar master’s passion and dedication to the heritage of LOUIS XIII. They symbolize the intimate connection between the past, the present, and the future – for generations to come.

What does LOUIS XIII Cognac’s RARE CASK 42.1 mean to you?

RARE CASK 42.1 holds a special place in my heart. It represents the culmination of years of craftsmanship. To me, it is a symbol of the relentless commitment to excellence and the joy of uncovering exceptional eaux-de-vie that have matured to their utmost potential. It is a true testament to the legacy of LOUIS XIII, the constellation of men and women who have perpetually revealed the gifts of time and of our terroir.