Proper Cognac – according to everyone you meet in Cognac including all master distillers – is a sublime blend of four components: wood, spice, florals, and fruit. This XO fulfills all these requirements and is 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 is strongly vanilla, with ginger spice and dark chocolate notes from the wood along with a light nuttiness and resin. The flavors fill the palate, creating a nice lengthy finish. The Eaux-de-vie is aged from 11 to 25 years, and shows that good Cognac cannot be rushed nor manufactured in a lab. Excellence isn’t cheap, but this XO will hold up for decades to come. A Platinum Award winner at the 2023 Critics Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition. 95
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Courvoisier
Spirit Type – Cognac
Other Designation – XO Royal
Country of Origin – France
ABV – 40%
Bottle Size – 700ml
Price – $285
Score – 95
Date Reviewed – 8/8/2023