Martell XO Cognac 1L

Rich, layered, and full of that dark-fruit-and-spice vibe, this XO Cognac is the kind of bottle you pour when you want people to stop mid-sentence and pay attention.

It sits in that sweet spot between bold and elegant, with deeper flavours than VSOP, but without turning into a sugar bomb. Think more roasted and nutty, less candy. If you’ve ever tried Cognac that felt one-note, this one fixes that fast.

• Nose: Dried apricot and fig, orange peel, toasted almond, vanilla, cocoa, and a hint of cigar box
• Taste: Rich fruitcake flavours, honeyed spice, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and gentle oak that builds weight on the palate
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering orange zest, baking spices, and a soft, woody grip

What makes it special is the blend’s structure. You get that round, floral lift associated with the Borderies cru, plus deeper, more serious backbone from Grande Champagne eaux-de-vie. Translation, it starts bright and aromatic, then settles into darker, toastier territory as you keep sipping.

This is a Cognac & Brandy staple for anyone who likes complexity without needing a tasting glossary. It works when you want a contemplative pour, but it also holds its own in classic Cognac cocktails where you don’t want the spirit to disappear, think Sazerac, Sidecar, or even an elevated Old Fashioned riff.

If you’re building a home bar, this earns shelf space because it covers a lot of moods. Celebrations, gifts, after-dinner pours, slow weekends. It’s one bottle that feels like several, depending on what glass you reach for and what you’re pairing it with.

Fun Fact: Martell is the oldest of the “big four” Cognac houses, founded in 1715, and it’s especially known for leaning into the fragrant Borderies cru in its blends.