Marnier Cognac XO

The nose is oak forward with reasonable complexity, caramel, dried fig, and baking spice, with hints of chocolate. The palette is disappointing and somewhat light, with a bright dried fruit, and a short, spicy finish that does have a lingering chocolatey oak on the back of the tongue. If you can get it inexpensively, works well for mixing, but at this price point you can do much, much better. Luckily, mine was free!

Not much information to be found about this XO cognac. One of the internet sellers had this to say: “Better known for their orange-flavored liqueur, Marnier also make a Cognac. A blend of up to 30 eaux-de-vie from the top cru of the region, Grande Champagne.” I like both Grand Marnier and cognac, so when I found it on sale I took a chance. There’s plenty of oak and barrel spices, from the nose to the finish, which start strong and gently fade, but never disappear. Not unpleasant by any means. They’re accentuated with cocoa, dried apricots and nutty notes. Rich palate. Long, drying, spicy finish. After further review, this is a little unrefined and harsh. Dropped 3/4 points.