Houston’s James Speakeasy Hosts Exclusive Louis XIII Cognac

News Summary

Houston’s James speakeasy is now the sole venue in Texas serving the prestigious Louis XIII Rare Cask 42.1 cognac. This limited-edition spirit, presented by cellar master Baptiste Loiseau, is unique for its high alcohol content and floral profile, with only 50 bottles available in the U.S. The exclusive pour, priced at $3,000 for a half-ounce, reflects a commitment to luxury and outstanding service. Alongside this rare offering, James also features an impressive collection of whiskeys to cater to diverse palates.

Houston’s James Speakeasy Becomes Exclusive Texas Venue for Louis XIII Rare Cask 42.1 Cognac

Houston, Texas has become the sole city in the state where connoisseurs can indulge in the prestigious Louis XIII Rare Cask 42.1 cognac, served exclusively at the members-only speakeasy known as James, located within Permission Whiskey & Service Co. Recently, Baptiste Loiseau, the cellar master for Louis XIII, presented this highly sought-after cognac, sharing insights into its unique qualities.

Rare Cask 42.1 is remarkable not only for its quality but also for its scarcity. Only fewer than 50 bottles have been allocated to the entire United States, making it a near-mythical addition to the drinking culture in Houston. Other establishments with the honor of serving Rare Cask 42.1 include notable spots like Nobu in New Orleans, Faena in Miami, MGM Mansions in Las Vegas, and Three Thirty Three in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The cost of this exclusivity comes at a steep price of $3,000 for a half-ounce pour, which is accompanied by luxurious white-glove service utilizing Baccarat crystal glassware. For those looking for a more traditional experience, the classic Louis XIII cognac remains available at a more accessible price of $125 per half-ounce.

The Craftsmanship Behind Rare Cask 42.1

Rare Cask 42.1 hails from a specific tierçon that Loiseau discovered in 2020, which is noted for its floral and aromatic profile. A limited production run of only 775 decanters of this exclusive cognac was created, with each decanter handcrafted by Baccarat in elegant black crystal. The “42.1” in its name references its unusually high alcohol content of 42.1 percent ABV, which sets it apart from traditional offerings.

This rare cognac represents the third installment in the House of Rémy Martin’s Rare Cask series, spanning a remarkable 150-year history, and it marks Loiseau’s personal debut in crafting a Rare Cask. Developing Rare Cask 42.1 took over a decade, following two previous editions released in 2009 and 2013. Since its bottling, Loiseau has only tasted Rare Cask 42.1 three times, making its unveiling at James an exceptional chance for patrons.

The Tasting Experience

The tasting experience of Rare Cask 42.1 is an art in itself. Patrons are encouraged to swirl the cognac to release its complex aromas before savoring the flavor, which features distinctive springlike notes of fresh flowers, mango, and lychee—fruits that contribute to its exquisite profile.

James offers not only Rare Cask 42.1 but also other expensive pours, including a two-ounce serving of Glenlivet 80 Year priced at $24,000, Hibiki 40 Year at $10,000, Balvenie 50 Year at $12,000, and Woodford Reserve 150 Kentucky Derby Commemorative at $3,000 for two ounces. However, despite these rarities, James also boasts an extensive collection of over 700 whiskeys, with about 80 percent priced under $25 for a two-ounce pour, ensuring options for every palate.

A Focus on Service

Owner Peter Nolan emphasizes the importance of service and hospitality at James. The establishment seeks to create an inviting atmosphere that valuably combines rare offerings with outstanding customer service. By fostering an exceptional experience, he aims to encourage patrons to return for not just the extraordinary cognac selections, but also for a welcoming environment.

In summary, Houston’s James speakeasy has positioned itself as the exclusive venue in Texas for the luxurious Louis XIII Rare Cask 42.1 cognac, inviting enthusiasts to experience a recognized pinnacle of spirit craftsmanship in a unique and enjoyable setting.

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Additional Resources

• Houston Chronicle
• Wikipedia: Cognac
• Town and Country
• Google Search: Rare Cask 42.1
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Whiskey