GRAND PRESTIGE / XO Very old Grande Champagne

Characteristics :

 

Created by Jean Burnez, grandfather of the current President, in the early 1930s, the blend went by the name of ‘Patriarche’, befitting its character as a personal selection by the senior member of the family. While the base of very old cognacs aged in damp, cool cellars has remained unchanged over generations, each successive Master Blender has brought his personal touch to the final product with a small number of additional eaux-de-vie, while respecting the natural, rich and complex character of this great cognac. Jean’s son Claude developed a somewhat heavier style with a greater degree of wood, while Claude’s son and current master blender Stéphane prefers a slightly lighter, more modern style of cognac, with a little less oak, reflecting his wish to taste the eaux-de-vie rather than the barrels in which they have aged. Throughout these current and future evolutions, the Très Vieille Grande Champagne will remain one of the signature blends of Maison Prunier, a truly old and magnificent example of what the Cognac region’s premier cru is capable

Colour

Burnished amber with gold highlights

 

Nose

Like all very old cognacs the first nose is a little closed, but swirling the glass will reveal notes of menthol, leather, candied fruits, walnuts, dark chocolate and a hint of liquorice. Creamy tannins melt into the voluptuous, clean nose. ‘Rancio’ dominated by vanilla and tobacco as the cognac warms up. Satisfyingly complete.

 

Mouth

The well-rounded power of the Grande Champagne characterizes the opening notes, with a delightful elegance and floral finesse. Further notes of archetypal ‘rancio’, fresh hazelnuts, dark chocolate and toffee follow into an exceptionally long finish.