Chateau de Montifaud are one of our very favourite Cognac producers. Family owned since 1866, the Vallet family are now in the 6th generation of management. Over the years Montifaud have developed a fabulous reputation for producing some of the very best spirit in the region.

Incredible bottles like this outstanding XO Cognac demonstrate that their status in the industry is well-earned. This spirit has been aged for between 30–35 years, far beyond the 6 years legally required, and illustrative of Montifaud’s policy of over-aging their Cognac. The Cognac has been aged in French oak casks in the Montifaud cellars, a dry and cool location that is ideal for the slow maturation of fine spirits.

The grapes used to make this bottling were grown in the Petite Champagne cru, widely viewed as one of the finest crus in the Cognac region. Furthermore, grapes in this Cognac have been grown at the Montifaud vineyard, that has been owned by the Vallet family since 1837. To say this Vineyard is auspiciously placed would be an understatement. The flat plateau it is located on ensures that the vines receive plenty of sunlight, whilst the chalky soil ensures the perfect level of acidity in the fruit.

The spirit itself is simply stupendously delicious. Its long age shines through, with absolutely glorious, dignified notes of dried fruit, dark oak, toasted nuts, baking spices, toffee and baked apples. The high quality grape also provides many of the notes found in the final spirit, with bright, fruity flavours of white peach, honeysuckle and sweet grapes. This is not a Cognac that you will forget in a hurry.

Bottled simply in a traditional wine bottle style, with a traditional presentation tube, the XO Ariane would make an excellent addition to any collection.

• Product type
  XO Cognac
• Distillery / brand
  Chateau Montifaud
• Country
  France
• Region
  Petit Champagne
• Bottler
  Distillery Bottling
• Non-chillfiltered
  No
• Natural colour
  Yes
• SKU
  028452