Metaxa 12 Star Brandy (700ml)

Made in the traditional full bodied Greek style dating back to 1888. Metaxa starts out like a brandy, with a variety of distillates from white varietals from different parts of Greece. After periods of ageing in French oak casks, the distillates are blended and mixed with a small amount of muscat wine from the Greek Aegean Islands of Samos and Limnos. Finally, Mediterranean herb and floral extracts are added – a secret recipe - apart from rose petals. The brandy's trademark smoothness is primarily derived from the Muscat wines.

Tasting note: Deep copper appearance is slightly subdued in the glass. Perfumed opening sniffs offer an amalgam of sweet scents from creme caramel to cocoa and dates. Aeration draws out hints of Turkish Delight then liquorice bullets, the latter partially relieving the sugars. Initially light and semi sweet in the mouth; mid palate shows extra depth offering spicy caramel flavours and hints of dried fruits towards the finish. Ends flabby with moderate length as the sweet spices linger. The genteel spirit and glossy texture don’t really compliment the sweetness. Overall, somewhat broad and flat. 40% Alc./Vol.