Grand Marnier Cuvee du Centenaire Liqueur (700ml)

Composed of over 80% cognac aged between 12-30 years, the price / quality ratio is exceptional. Easily one of the world's great liqueurs.

A step up from Grand Marnier's entry level bottling is the harder to find 'Cuvee du Centenaire'. First released in 1927 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the creation of the company, it employs cognac reserves aged between 12-30 years (primarily from Grande Champagne, the remainder from Petite Champagne). What makes the price all the more remarkable is that 82% of the liquid is actually cognac, combined with the distilled essence of Seville oranges. The end result is married for around two years in large oak vats. From the very first pour, the bouquet impresses with its oh-so-fresh orange peel lift that delights the olfactory sense. Subsequent inspection locates the cognac, seamlessly integrated into the citrus, identifiable as hints dried fig and sweet cigar box, adding depth and complexity; Further exposure seems to melt the entirety into a stunning orange marmalade bliss, although the interchange between fresh peel and sweeter, heavier notes never really ends. Now orange cake, now hints of jaffa… Silky on entry, developing into a concentrated mid palate burst that's initially sweet, tempered by tingling baking spices and peel, the final stages are luxurious, long and perfectly poised with candied peel and gentle spirit warmth. Classic and deeply satisfying, it'd be a shame to mix something this refined, yet it has been known to make its way into mind-blowing ultra premium margaritas. 40% alc./Vol. 237 grams of sugar / litre.

Other reviews... Amber. Subtle orange rind nose. A smooth, bright entry leads to a medium-to full-bodied palate with candied orange and brown spice notes followed by a lush wave of warming alcohol. Subtly complex, extremely refined, and highly polished. 40% Alc./Vol.
International Review of Spirits Award: Platinum Medal, 97 points (Superlative) - tastings.com

The palate is balanced between the citric acid, alcohol, Cognac and wood, with the Cognac always prevailing. Concludes with finesse, a sweet-sour presence, and an incredibly lush texture. 96-100 points - wineenthusiast.com

Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition 2016

5+ Stars - diffordsguide.com

"On the nose, juicy and floral orange meld with rich hints of cognac. On the palate, honeyed and candied orange flavors are lifted and given depth thanks to the beautifully blended and aged base. It's balanced and full all the way through, leaving lingering flavors, both bright and rich. While this could be used in a cocktail, it’s more suited for sipping on its own to be savored." 93 points - distiller.com