Visited Cognac in 2013....Remy use fairly old blends in their VSOP to get the required flavour, up to 25 years old and superior to most of the manufacturers. Otard is an exception, also very good. Straight Cognac should be an XO minimum, much more syrupy and smooth with a mellow flavour. Louis XIII is something amazing! We visited the chateau housing these unique barrels, the oldest were 150 years plus! A great region to visit if you're in France.