Delamain Extra Cognac (700ml)

One of Delamain's oldest expressions, Extra comes in an original decanter, designed and blown exclusively for Delamain. In cognac, the 'Extra' classification is essentially the same as XO (at least 6 years of age), however it denotes a quality that's superior to an XO or Napoleon, so the average age is typically 15-25 years. Delamain's goes beyond that.

Tasting note: Bright amber gold. Shy and dry... vapoury alcohol, pencil shavings, muted dark chocolate, dried fruits. 5-10 minutes air contact expands the bouquet adding hints of honey, orange blossom, dried fig, cedar but the aroma remains relatively restrained. Palate offers a superb, slow-motion release of orchard fruits (apricot, fig, peach), light rancio and an almost chewy feel. Finish accents cedary oak, wild honey, light passion fruit, cocoa and vanilla. Ends fresh, finely tannic, linear, understated and deceptively long with the exotic fruit notes reverberating late. Give it plenty of time to show its best. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews… The bouquet is a model of aromatic elegance with subtle aromas of oak, bacon, oak, toffee, baked pear, baked banana and honey. The palate entry finds harmonious, completely integrated tastes of honey, oak, grapes and spice; at midpalate tastes of bacon fat, pork rind and oaky vanillin are added. A masterpiece. 95-100 points - wineenthusiast.com

On the nose, you first perceive old fashioned rose and a hint of cherry blossom, then the wood comes into play and integrates the fruit. On the palate, it displays strong rancio characters, a beautiful velvety softness with a hard edge of raisin and walnut. It finishes long, strong and dry for a sublime experience.
- Franz Scheurer, Gourmet Traveller Wine, December 2008