Though Cognac is known worldwide, there are fewer than 300 Cognac producers operating in France. This small cadre of distillers create some of the world’s most coveted brandy. This XO offers delicate aroma of dried fruit and lithe butterscotch, which fill the glass. Pléiade was launched on the eve of the Covid lockdown in 2020 – hardly ideal timing – but the timing is always right for stellar Cognac. In the Cognac world the prized grapes are always Grande Champagne grapes, grown under strict control. This XO offers all the classic elements: fruit, wood, spice, oak and floral. This is a subtle and quiet Cognac, one that doesn’t announce itself loudy, which is true of the best Cognacs. This edition is a mature Grande Champagne eau-de-vie coming exclusively from the village of Malaville and matured in a single French oak cask. Here the flavors of dried fruit, fig and dried cherry, lilac and spring wildflowers notes take precedent over the other two traditional elements of wood and spice, making this a softer iteration. There are still toffee notes, resin, and sandalwood, and passing licorice, which lead to a lengthy finish. In short this is a beautifully balanced Cognac that presents authoritative elements, showing that world class Cognac is still a marvel in the bottle. 97
Spirit of the Year and a Platinum Award winner at the 2025 Critics Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition.
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Delamain
Spirit Type – Cognac
Other Designation – Pléiade Domaine la Rambaudie XO
Country of Origin – France
ABV – 45%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $250
Score – 97
Date Reviewed – 6/28/2025