COGNAC, 25-YEAR-OLD COGNAC XO

Crus de Grande Champagne. These are 25- to 30-year-old Cognacs, aged exclusively in oak barrels, and blended more than 30 months previously. Hennessy-type distillation. 40° proof. Natural reduction with light filtration at ambient temperature (Risk of small crystals in intense cold, but these will disappear at normal temperatures)

Definite emergence of rancio, a significant note of ageing in a brandy, with notes of old leather and vanilla, and lighter notes of lime, vine flowers and spices.

Length which persists well after tasting, with a pronounced softening in the mouth and re-emergence of honey in the finish. A smooth cognac with blended spice.