Louis XIII, one of the world’s most luxurious cognac brands, is launching a special limited edition bottling from a single “Rare Cask”, marking it as only the second time in the brand’s 140-year history that such an offering has been made available. Louis XIII, from the famed house of Rémy Martin, is a unique blend of over 1,200 eaux-de-vie sourced exclusively from Grande Champagne, the most prestigious “cru” in the Cognac region. The precious spirit is aged for up to a century in casks known as “tierçons”, an extraordinary example of which was discovered by Louis XIII’s cellar master and earmarked for this unparalleled edition.

Named 42,6 for its above-average strength of 42.6 percent alcohol, the size of the cask allows for only 738 decanters to be filled, priced at about $23,000 apiece, with only a small amount destined for the U.S. Each decanter is fashioned by 20 expert craftsmen from precious black Baccarat crystal, crowned with a 24k rose gold ring at the neck and topped with a black crystal stopper. Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6 will initially only be available by the glass beginning in June at London’s most exclusive establishments, while the remaining bottle allotment will be released for sale in September at fine wine and spirits boutiques.