Martell XO (75cl, 40%)

Martell XO is an extra-old cognac from Cognac, France, from a house founded in 1715. It draws eaux-de-vie from Borderies, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne and Fins Bois, and is double-distilled in traditional Charentais copper pot stills using predominantly Ugni Blanc grapes. Martell distils clear wines, with all lees and sediments removed before distillation. On the nose there are black pepper, pink peppercorn, coriander seed, ripe fig, crushed walnut, sandalwood, butter cream and marzipan. The palate brings fig, walnut, red fruit, blackcurrant bud, spiced plum, candied orange peel, cocoa and toasted almond. The finish is exceptionally long and silken with rancio.