A Cognac may be sold only when its youngest eau-de-vie reaches a minimum of two and a half years old, as of the first day of October following the harvest of the grapes.
Only the years of storage in oak barrels count to determine its age.
Once transferred into glass, the Cognac stops maturing. It stands still.
A Napoleon, or X.O (for Extra Old ), also called Hors d'âge, is a cognac which youngest eau-de-vie is at least six and a half years old.
Most Cognac houses will use Cognacs much older than those required by law, allowing X.Os to reach a minimum of twenty years old, in order to reveal their very best.
Château de Beaulon - 12 years
Grande Fine
A 12 year old Cognac
Excellence Trophy, Olympiades Vinexpo 2003
Château de Montifaud - Héritage Louis Vallet
Cask strength Eau de Vie 45-50 years old.
Blend of eaux de vie between 1947 and 1955.
Antic bottle. Gift box on request with extra cost.
Château de Montifaud - Réserve Spéciale Michel Vallet
Special Reserve Michel Vallet : (Helios decanter)
The hints of linden flowers remain very present whereas the flowers on the vine have almost disappeared. There are dreied flowers and vanilla.
In the mouth : apricot and plum. Not aggressive to the palate but the wood is more perceptible than in the VSOP.
Château de Montifaud - XO -
Remarkable aromas of dried fruits and, in particular, grilled almonds. Great freshness and not too tannic.
Ariane bottle with its gift box.
Château de Montifaud - XO - Helios
Remarkable aromas of dried fruits and, in particular, grilled almonds. Great freshness and not too tannic.
XO of Château de Montifaud is proposed in four presentations.
Helios decanter with its gift box.
Château de Montifaud - XO - Kéops
Remarkable aromas of dried fruits and, in particular, grilled almonds. Great freshness and not too tannic.
XO of Château de Montifaud is proposed in four presentations.
Kéops decanter with its gift box.
Couprie - Napoléon
The youngest Cognac in this blend is aged for long time in Limousin oak barrels (including several years in new barrels).
Elegant copper highlights, a lingering bouquet, and a powerful, round flavour make this a very distinguished Cognac. The oaky characteristics and candied fruit flavours coat the palate after the first sip.









