Proper Cognac is a sublime blend of four components: wood, spice, floral, and fruit. What sets exceptional Cognac like this XO apart is the seamless melding of each of the four components without making any one of them the star player. This XO fills all these requirements, and it’s everything you want in a sophisticated Cognac. The spiciness of pepper is evident, as are the floral notes of violets and roses. There are fruits of strawberry, pear, red berries and apple. The palate presents vanilla, with ginger spice and dark chocolate notes from the wood along with a light nuttiness and resin. These diverse flavors create a compelling and lengthy finish. The eaux-de-vie is aged from 11 to 25 years, and Cognac of this quality cannot be rushed, nor manufactured in a lab. Time is the essential ingredient in fine Cognac. Excellence is not inexpensive, however this XO will hold up for decades to come. Best Cognac and a Platinum award winner at the 2024 Critics Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition. 97
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Courvoisier
Spirit Type – Cognac
Other Designation – XO
Country of Origin – France
ABV – 40%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $200
Score – 97
Date Reviewed – 7/13/2024