This is a dramatic step up from the VSOP. Gone is the cloying, manufactured sweetness that characterized the younger expression and it's been replaced by a rich, juicy complexity. The sophistication is apparent on the floral nose... I get notes of mellow red grapes. The palate echoes these grape flavors with some pleasing cinnamon spice and wood notes arriving on the finish. The subtle sweetness here is really very satisfying. A fine XO indeed. Over-marketed for sure, but it delivers.