TASTING NOTE

An XO cognac from Maxime Trijol, made using grapes solely from the Grande Champagne region. The family began distilling in 1859 and Maxime set up his own distillery in 1962. Rich nose of anise and sweet spices. Unlit cigars, custard, plenty of sweetness. On the palate full bodied and balanced, sweet fruit, ginger, oak, hints of delectable rancio. 70cl.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

The Trijol history is one of measured achievement. The family originally settled as growers and distillers in St Martial Sur Né, in the heart of the Cognac region. Their first still was installed in November 1859, and since then they have built on their expertise as growers and distillers, becoming professional distillers in 1962. An independent family firm, Maxime Trijol has twenty 2,500 litre charentais pot stills and is now one of the largest distillers of cognac. The current head of the company, Jean-Jacques Trijol, is an artist, wielding his skilful palate through the process of distillation and blending, adapting - sometimes minutely - the spirit he collects from each still and varying his technique slightly depending on the harvest and the wine.

In recent times the company has concentrated on releasing more of its own cognacs, which have been building a great reputation for quality. Jean-Jacques Trijol blends various ages to create batches, which are then combined to make differing qualities. For example, the vitality of a 10-15 year old batch is aided by the maturity of the 30-40 year old cognacs, and conversely, the older blends are refreshed with the younger blends to lift the palate and add a dash of zest.