Lot 65 is a 50-year-old cognac of unique quality. Made in 1965, it is the only such old cognac in its undiluted version that left the Vallein-Tercinier cognac house. It is also the most highly valued one among all cognacs tested so far by Serge Valentin, a critic and connoisseur of various spirits. It is characterised by rich aroma and flavour profile and an unending finish.

Cognac house: Vallein-Tercinier
Region: Grande Champagne
Strength: 54,4%
Single cask
Cask strength
Year: 1965

Tasting notes

Serge Valentin - 94/100 points

„Here is a review of a Lot 65 that I had yet to taste, believe it or not. The first 1965 VT I tasted, quite some years ago, made me realise that cognac could be better than the best of the best malt whiskies. Quite the statement. Colour: golden amber. Nose: but yes, I remember. Sauteed ceps with Noilly Prat sauce, quality mead (of which there is not much), pistachio nougat, apricots roasted with vanilla and deglazed in Sauternes, and many other things. It’s a spirit for the Greek or Roman gods; after all, they are the same, aren’t they? With water: resins come to the fore, mastic, marzipan, oil paint, and more simply, apple. Mouth (neat): I do not think I have ever tasted a cognac I preferred. An incredible blend of chestnut honey, mango, exquisite chocolate, and no less precious tobacco. Ready… 1, 2, 3, and we bow! With water: once again, the resins are prominent but never overpowering, even if there is a hint of chlorophyll, bitter almonds, various peppers, a few touches of rubber… But fresh oranges are on patrol and put everything back on the right track, it remains a fruity old cognac. Finish: long, focused, with citrus, nutmeg, and honey. Comments: by Zeus! Even on a palate slightly fatigued by a good number of cognacs already tasted today (but that’s a piece of cake when the quality is there), this 1965 remains radiant. For the good of the planet, we should make all the dictators of the world drink it. SGP:661 – 94 points”