Gautier XO

Gautier XO is a 40% ABV XO Cognac from Maison Gautier in the town of Aigre, Charente, made from eaux-de-vie aged at least ten years. The house gained the right to produce Cognac through a founding charter signed by King Louis XV in 1755, and set up its cellars in an old water mill on the Osme river. Maison Gautier is today part of the Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits group.

What does Gautier XO taste like?

According to the producer, the blend also includes distillates from the house's "paradise cellar", where its most precious and oldest eaux-de-vie are kept. On the nose, candied fruits, orange blossom and gingerbread are felt intensely, rounded out by delicate floral notes. On the palate it is generous and soft, ending in a long, lingering finish typical of old Cognacs. The humid cellars on the river allow for slow, balanced maturation.

How is it served?

Its complex aromas show best neat, at room temperature, in a tulip-shaped glass. Letting it rest in the glass for a few minutes helps the fruit and floral notes to open; it is well suited to slow, after-dinner sipping.

What food does it pair with?

Its candied fruit and spice notes make a good match with bitter chocolate desserts, mature hard cheeses, and toasted hazelnuts or walnuts.