Bache Gabrielsen XO Fine Champagne Cognac

Bache Gabrielsen XO Fine Champagne Cognac

After emigrating from Norway to France in pursuit of the woman who would eventually become his bride, Thomas Bache-Gabrielsen founded a distillery in the Cognac region of France in 1905. At the time, Thomas' father was an executive at Holmestrands Samlag for Br?ndevinshandel, the largest alcohol producer in Norway, and Thomas brought with him the traditions and techniques inherited from his family lineage. Today, Maison Bache-Gabrielsen is one of the last remaining, family-run cognac houses in France (the distillery is run by Herv Bache-Gabrielsen, Thomas' great-grandson). Bache-Gabrielsen XO Fine Champagne Cognac is a blend of cognacs produced from the Grande Champagne (72%) and Petite Champagne (28%) crus (cru is French term for growth zones) of France. These two crus are highly-prized for their chalky, rich soil which are ideal for the production of grapes used to make the cognac. Once the grapes (95% Ugni Blanc grapes and 5% Colombard and Folle Blanche grapes) from these crus are harvested, they are pressed and the remaining grape juice is fermented in stainless steel fermentation tanks. The resulting wine is then distilled twice through a traditional, alambic Charentais still. Following distillation, Bache-Gabrielsen XO Fine Champagne Cognac is matured for a minimum of six years (although the average age of the blend is closer to 20 years) in French Limousin oak casks. As a result of this extra-long maturation period, the cognac has a floral aroma, with hints of oak and spices that give way to notes of apples, cinnamon and caramel on the palate. The finish is lush and rich, with touches of old leather, dates, vanilla beans and cedar that complement a slightly sweet undertone. The cognac earned the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2009. Pick up a bottle today!