Again in 2008 we had our first (primitive) encounter with Cognac producer Delamain and its Pale & Dry providing — an XO that stands at first of the operation’s vary. The expression dates again to 1920 and is made completely from eaux-de-vie of Grande Champagne, matured in 350-litre barrels of outdated Limousin oak.
In 2025 we obtained a recent bottle to provide it a recent look and evaluate. Let’s dig in.
Delamain “Pale & Dry” XO Cognac (2025) Overview
Extraordinarily floral on the nostril, nearly to a fault, this Cognac showcases a twig of perfumed parts that embody jasmine, lilac, and a sharper chunk of thyme. These extremely aromatic parts soften in time to disclose some sweetness — brown butter, dusted with baking spice, heavy on the cloves. There’s an actual Christmas vibe right here, which is good as a result of I occurred to be sipping this for evaluate on Christmas Eve.
The palate is simply as perfumed because the nostril, with enduring notes of potpourri clinging to the tongue. It’s by no means off-putting because of balancing layers of vanilla, oily fruitcake, and a few gingerbread notes that construct with time in glass. Recent flowers proceed to dominate on the end, right here exhibiting off extra of a rose hip high quality, with a contact of pink berry and chocolate on the fade-out.
It’s as delicate an XO as you’ll discover available on the market — and an enormous win for followers of this aggressively floral fashion.
84 proof.
A- / $120 [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]
Delamain “Pale & Dry” XO Cognac (2025)
USD120
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