For three centuries, Martell has produced, exported and marketed cognacs which are recognised worldwide for their outstanding quality and finesse, obtained through double distillation of exclusively clear wines and ageing in fine grained oak casks. Uniquely, however, for Martell VSOP Aged in Red Barrels, the Martell Cellar Master selected oak casks already used to age eaux-de-vie, where the influence of tannins is even less pronounced. Known as futs roux owing to the reddish tinge of their wood, these precious barrels have reached the perfect stage of maturation for both the oak and the eaux-de-vie, thus allowing for an ideally balanced exchange between the two. Not only are they able to fully express their natural fruit aromas but these blend harmoniously with subtle woody overtones from the red barrels of fine-grained oak, resulting in an exceptionally rich and refined cognac that is an authentic expression of the Martell style. The nose is bittersweet softness of lime and liquorice, the crystallised fruit of quince, raisin and plum, and the spring undergrowth scent of oak wood and hazelnut. The palate is soft, mellow and complex with crystallised-fruit notes. An ample, round body and a long finish.