The penultimate cognac in our Cognac-Expert Advent Calendar is a 30-year-old Hardy Noces de Perle Cognac. Cognac Hardy, established in 1863 by British-born Anthony Hardy, is a testament to passion and resilience in the cognac world. After relocating to France and embracing French culture – adopting the name Antoine and the rooster as his emblem – Hardy earned a stellar reputation for his dedication to Fine Champagne cognac, evidenced by awards such as the 1869 Diploma of Excellence at the Amsterdam Exhibition. Despite challenges like the devastating phylloxera outbreak in the late 19th century, Hardy preserved sufficient reserves to rebuild and expand globally. Over generations, leadership passed through family hands, with each era bringing innovation and market growth. Notable milestones include the invention of ‘Anniversary’ cognacs in 1960, marked by the creation of iconic decanters like Noces de Perle (30 years) and Noces d’Albâtre (75 years). Under Jacques Hardy’s leadership, the company extended its reach to new continents. He retired in 1999, and the company name changed from A. Hardy et Cie to Cognac Hardy.
Hardy Noces de Perle Cognac Review
The Hardy Noces de Perle Cognac is a unique blend of ten cognacs sourced exclusively from the premier cru of Grande Champagne. Crafted from Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes, this exceptional cognac is distilled on the lees in traditional 25-hectolitre pot stills. It is then aged in cellars with alternating humid and dry conditions, using medium-toasted barrels from the Tonnellerie Cognacaise and large-grain oak casks. Each eau-de-vie in this blend has matured for at least 30 years, with some ageing for 50, 60 years, or even longer. I won’t comment on the crystal decanter from the Cristalleries des Vosges, shaped like a water droplet in an Art Deco style… This cognac is bottled at 40%, without additives, and is priced around €900.
Colour:
Mahogany.
Nose:
Neat: The nose is notably intense, offering aromas of orange and raisins alongside notes of oak and sandalwood. Subtle hints of mango and grapefruit add a fruity touch, complemented by vanilla extract, brown sugar, and a touch of rancio.
Palate:
Neat: The palate opens with a burst of pepper and citrus fruits, notably lemon and orange, before transitioning to flavours of nasturtium, chocolate, guava, and mango. Notes of wood resin, caramel, and honey follow, all delivered with a creamy mouthfeel.
Finish:
Peppery caramel and chocolate lead the finish, followed by brown sugar, agave syrup, and oak. The pepper notes persist for a long moment.
Comments:
I said I wouldn’t comment on the bottle design… but let’s be honest, it’s kitschy and unattractive – almost Macallan-esque, which isn’t exactly a compliment. Lose the pedestal, stick to a simple cork, and you’d have something far more elegant. The price also feels inflated, and I’d bet a more classic bottle could shave €100 off the cost. But setting aside the packaging and focusing purely on the liquid itself – which is what truly matters – this Hardy Noces de Perles Cognac is outstanding. It’s another brilliant example of why Grande Champagne holds its reputation. The cognac is packed with flavour, proving that even at 40% ABV, excellence is possible (though imagine it at a higher strength!) I especially loved the peppery notes on the palate and finish. Truly a remarkable cognac.
