Founded in 2012, D’USSÉ Cognac is one of the youngest players in the luxury spirits world — yet it carries centuries of tradition. Cognac itself dates back to the 1600s, but D’USSÉ was created to bring fresh energy to the category. In just over a decade, it has become a modern icon with sales climbing worldwide.
We spoke with Sullivan Doh, Global Brand Ambassador, to uncover the brand’s history, product range, and his favorite cocktail to make at home.
The Story of D’USSÉ
Unlike most cognac houses, D’USSÉ is a modern brand with historic roots. Although it launched in 2012, its liquid is crafted at the Château de Cognac, a 200-year-old estate in France.
The brand was conceived by Michel Casavecchia, one of today’s most respected cellar masters. His goal was to create a cognac that feels bold, authentic, and modern, while honoring centuries of craftsmanship.
The debut came with D’USSÉ V.S.O.P. in 2012, followed by the ultra-premium D’USSÉ X.O. in 2014. Together, they positioned the label as a leader in the new wave of cognac.
Sullivan Doh’s Journey
Born and raised in France, Sullivan Doh started bartending in Paris in 2009. By 2012, he had worked his way up to head bartender and discovered a passion for showcasing French spirits.
In 2014, he co-founded Le Syndicat, Paris’s first cocktail bar to use only French alcohol. Two years later, he launched La Commune, a punch-focused bar that also highlighted local spirits. Both quickly earned global recognition.
This dedication caught the attention of D’USSÉ. In 2019, Doh became the brand’s Global Ambassador, a role that perfectly reflects his mission to shine a spotlight on French craftsmanship.
The D’USSÉ Collection
D’USSÉ offers two signature cognacs, both crafted with care at the Château de Cognac.
D’USSÉ V.S.O.P. (S.R.P. $50): Aged for at least 4.5 years in French oak, this blend is smooth, complex, and perfectly balanced.
D’USSÉ X.O. (S.R.P. $230): Aged a minimum of 10 years, this ultra-premium cognac reveals layers of hazelnut, nutmeg, apricot, and warm spice. Its striking bottle, marked with the Cross of Lorraine, symbolizes honor and perseverance.
A Cocktail to Try: The Splendid Sidecar
For Doh, the Splendid Sidecar reflects everything D’USSÉ stands for — a modern twist on a classic. Orange blossom water brightens the citrus notes, making it fresh and approachable.
Recipe:
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1.5 parts D’USSÉ V.S.O.P.
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1 part Triple Sec or Orange Liqueur
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¾ part Fresh Lemon Juice
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⅓ part Orange Blossom Water
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1 tsp Simple Syrup
Shake with ice, strain, and serve chilled.
Tradition Meets Modern Luxury
With its bold vision, historic roots, and contemporary flair, D’USSÉ Cognac is redefining what it means to enjoy French spirits. From its V.S.O.P. to its X.O., the brand continues to blend authenticity with innovation — one glass at a time.
