Tesseron Lot 76 XO Tradition Cognac (700ml)

100% ugni blanc, with the youngest component being 25 years old.

Lot 76 is a blend of 25- 30-year-old reserve stocks of Grande Champagne cognacs, distilled predominantly in the mid-1970s and then matured in old casks until bottling. Compared to Lot 90, the nose is less opulent but more nuanced yielding hints of sandalwood, orange zest and dates, and while it's understated on entry, the middle and later stages boast a gorgeous richness and depth, the fruit notes tending towards dried figs and pear eaux de vie. Wood spices develop before the finish turns wonderfully delicate, lingering with suggestions of fruit cake, cigar box, dark chocolate and cinnamon. A balance of richness and classic cognac elegance is achieved here, with a profile that resembles some very old sherry-matured single malts - think Glenfarclas or Glenlivet. Tasted from a 50ml sample. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... The bouquet includes delicate fragrances of spice, sesame seed, light oak, pineapple, light toffee and brown sugar. The palate entry is elegant and moderately sweet; at midpalate there are flavors of ripe pear, white grapes, cake frosting, oloroso Sherry, orange peel and dark honey. Ends up sweet, satiny and long in the throat. 90-95 points - wineenthusiast.com

Full soft and mouthfilling. An ever-changing interplay between chestnut, honey, raspberry, beeswax, peaches in heavy syrup, and dried apricot. The wood is crisp, spicy and well-balanced, and the finish has a lovely touch of crystallised fruit. 95 points - Wine & Spirit Magazine

"Amber brown, with a nose mingling violets and prunes. Smooth and polished on the palate with hints of caramelised fruit and a fine, clear almost creamy finish." - Nicholas Faith, Decanter