Raymond Ragnaud – XO – Grande Champagne, 1er Cru du Cognac

The nose is fine, quite elegant and offers a slight intensity as well as a slight richness (in the background). It reveals notes of candied orange, dried zests of citrus and slight notes of kumquat, dry yellow grapes associated with slight touches of citron, tobacco, almond as well as a very discreet hint of cocoa, gray pepper and grilled oak. The palate is fruity, well-balanced and offers a slight acid frame, a slight minerality, a good guideline, a slight freshness, a very slight juiciness as well as precision. In the mouth this Cognac expresses notes of marmalade, candied lemon, crystallized mandarin and slight notes of pâtisseries associated with slight touches of quince, crushed / compoted peach as well as discreet touches of cedar, tobacco, caramel, wood and spices. Good length. The finish is slightly gourmande / suave and offers power.