Paul Giraud – XO – Premier Cru de Cognac – Grande Champagne

The nose is fruity, gourmand, aromatic, rich (but all in finesse) and complexe. It reveals notes of candied mandarin, apricot and more slightly of dried yellow peach associated with hints of caramel, candied lemon as well as a subtle/imperceptible hint of licorice (in the background), white flowers, woody hints and a very discreet hint of pâtisseries. The palate is fruity, very well-balanced, relatively fat, suave, elegant, racy and offers a beautiful guideline as well as a richness (but full of finesse). In the mouth this Cognac expresses slight notes of peach in syrup, candied lemon and slight notes of fresh apricot, white flowers associated with a hint of rancio, cigare, spices and a subtle hint of caramel, pâtisseries as well as a very discreet hint of grilled oak and an imperceptible hint of gray pepper. Good length and aromatic persistence. The finish is relatively powerful.