Guerin Cognac XO, with giftbox

The top of the Guérin range, aged 10 years. It has a deep toasted-oak colour with glints between burnt topaz and red. The nose starts with nutmeg and caramelised apple, then builds into saffron and apricot compote. The attack is smooth and almost sugary, turning round and chewy, and it finishes on a long floral note of wild carnation. Made for slow sipping after dinner, and a natural match for game or a rich chocolate dessert. Presented in a giftbox, it's a family-made XO for venues and shops that want something beyond the big cognac houses.

Alcohol: 40% vol.