Lhéraud Cognac XO Charles VII, 700 ml

The Lhéraud XO Charles VII Cognac is an elegant multi-cru blend, accentuated by the eye-catching decanter that reveals the rich colour of the sumptuous brandy. The Charles VII Cognac is a rarity – a top brandy of which only very few bottles exist. The 40-year-old cognac was distilled in the charcoal-heated Alambic Charentais. Reminiscent of exotic and faraway places, the Charentais is still considered the most beautiful and charming of all stills. It originated in the French region of Cognac in the early 16th century, when the acidic white wines of the Charente were first distilled into brandy. At that time, ships from the countries bordering the North and Baltic Seas entered the French port of La Rochelle to load salt. They also took some of the local wines on board. To save space on the ships and to increase the value of a small cargo, the wine volume was reduced by distillation in this distillery. Originally, the spirit was to be turned back into wine by adding water once it was back on land. But customers soon preferred the brandy from the Charente, the cognac, to the more acidic wines.

A pleasure for all the senses: from the dark golden colour reminiscent of amber that dances before the eyes, to the aromas and the delight on the palate, this is a cognac that takes the taster on a journey from start to finish. The overwhelming bouquet captivates the nose with a fascinating kaleidoscope of aromas. Floral notes, roasted nuts, caramel, coffee and vanilla notes skilfully alternate. The Lhéraud XO Charles VII Cognac is full-bodied and mouth-filling, but never overbearing. A sweet and juicy mid palate with stone fruit and honeyed apples, followed by caramel and coffee liqueur. The incredibly full-bodied structure continues into the very long finish. Its fine texture that appeals especially to connoisseurs and cigar smokers is also very convincing. Impressive when accompanied by a good cigar, it is also a real treat when paired with light or dark chocolate.