Cognac Takes a Cue From Whisky

Whisky lovers have long relished the uniqueness of single-barrel offerings and individual cask selections, and that kind of careful curation has finally arrived in cognac. Nicolas Palazzi, proprietor of importer PM Spirits, searches the cellars of grape farmers who not only grow but also ferment and distill. Oftentimes, the prize is a unique experience from a cask that has reached peak maturity, bottled at perfect proof to show off its charms. And, Palazzi says, he’s slowly growing an appreciation for his farm-to-bottle treatment: “It’s a constant battle to get people to understand the wide possibilities of cognac.”