Delamain Pale & Dry X.O. Grande Champagne Cognac, France (700ml)

DISTILLER’S NOTES:

Fruit notes of ripe apricot and citrus followed by vanilla, spice and ginger. Light and delicate on the mouth with a delectable, powdery, dry finish.

TASTING NOTES:

Delamains youngest offering, at 20 to 25 years old, is also one of the standard-bearers of Grande Champagne (the blend was created in the 1920s and hasnt changed). Light amber, with a delightful nose full of pear, marmalade, quince and orange blossom. The pear and quince carry onto the palate, where a distinctive membrillo-like flavor emerges a unique note I find in a number of Delamain expressions. Theres gentle spice and warm citrus on the palate, gliding to a long, delicate finish. The definition of elegance.

– Vinous, 96 pts.

Bold and butterscotchy, this easy-drinking Cognac also has dried fruit and nutty tones, plus a saline touch that’s reminiscent of salted caramel. There’s a spicy flourish on the relatively dry finish. Delamain notes that it is one of the only Cognac houses to exclude VS and VSOP expressions from its portfolio, ‘its range starts where others end, with an X.O.

– Wine Enthusiast, 95 pts.