This month we learn about a modern day take on Cognac with Sullivan Doh of D’USSÉ Cognac. You may have heard of this brand because of its connection to Jay-Z but as Sullivan explains there are a lot of interesting things going on with this brand beyond this interesting celebrity connection. We talk about the inspiration for developing a modern style of cognac, shifting perceptions of Cognac in the US, France and other countries, how Cognac is consumed and used in cocktails these days and what the future holds.
Sullivan Doh is D’USSÉ’s first ever Global Brand Ambassador who brings a breadth of experience in the hospitality and mixology spheres. The French native has taken on a leading public role to engage new consumers and trade. His creativity and enduring passion for French spirits have brought him global acclaim.
Doh received a bachelor’s degree in Catering Management at the École Supérieure de Cuisine Française Grégoire-Ferrandi in Paris, before building up some of the most prestigious bar programs around the world in cities such as Paris, London, and Sydney.
Prior to his new role with D’USSÉ, Doh co-founded and managed Le Syndicat Paris – the first cocktail bar in Paris to use only French alcohol to promote and showcase the diversity the country has to offer. He successfully replicated this concept at the famed La Commune bar in Paris. His career – marked by a deep respect for the heritage of French spirits and a drive for innovation – has earned him numerous awards including a Forbes 30 Under 30 honor in 2016. As Global Brand Ambassador, Doh brings his expertise to the U.S., Canada, South Africa, and Nigeria.
Products, places and people mentioned in the episode
Le Syndicat cocktail bar in Paris
Bartender at Large cocktail podcast with Eric Castro
Interview with Giovanni of le Syndicat on Paris Cocktail Talk
Cocktail of the Month: Side Car
45 ml of D’USSÉ VSOP
30 ml of Triple Sec
20 ml lemon juice
10 ml orange blossom water
This makes for a more balanced and floral Side Car cocktail than the usual recipe. And there are plenty more cocktail recipes on the D’USSÉ site.
Big thanks to…
Sullivan Doh
World Radio Paris for syndication
Son Little for the music we use
and YOU for tuning in, downloading and listening!
You can also find more of the best Paris cocktail talk at:
52 Martinis site or if you’d like to carry me around in your pocket, download the iOS app, Paris Cocktails.
Paris Cocktail Talk is available on iTunes, World Radio Paris, 52 Martinis or wherever you get your podcasts.
As usual, we remind you to drink responsibly.
Finally, if you like what we’re doing, please help us spread the cocktail word and leave a quick review.
