Grand Marnier Cognac

Detailed Description

Grand Marnier is an orange liqueur made from a blend of cognac (51%) and bitter orange distillate (49%). To make this distillate, the bitter orange variety, citrus Bigaradia, is harvested and the peels are sun-dried. The peels then macerate in neutral alcohol for ~ 10 days before it is distilled. This bitter orange distillate is then blended with cognac and further aged in large oak vats for 1-6 months. Originally named Curaçao Marnier when created in 1880 by founder Louis-Alexandre Marnier Lapostolle, it was soon changed to Grand Marnier after friends declared it to be grand. The orange liqueur is currently made by master blender Patrick Raguenaud who has held the position since 2004. Also called Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge or simply GrandMa by those in the bar industry.

Grand Marnier Cognac Tasting Notes

Nose: Blood oranges, lime zest, and orange juice bring the citrus on the nose, along with a floral bouquet and a hint of caramel.

Palate: The palate is silky, with the spirituous cognac coming out alongside spicy oak, and both playing off the bitter-zesty orange base.

Finish: The finish is short with a spicy flourish and bitter orange Champagne marmalade.

Distillery Information

Founded in 1880, Marnier Lapostolle are the makers of the Grand Marnier range. Originally known for their Cordon Rouge orange liqueur, made with distilled bitter orange essence and brandy, the range now includes a number of other liqueurs.