Germain-Robin Select Barrel XO

Germain-Robin Select Barrel XO

Alambic Brandy

40% Alcohol (80 Proof)

 

Robb Report is famous for one thing: LUXURY.  Back in 1999, Robb Report had a panel of experts do tastings to find the best spirits in the world and the winner... Germain-Robin's Select Barrel XO brandy.  Not only did it beat out many big-name spirit makers, but it even beat out the Richard Hennessy cognac which retails for around $1700.  That's very impressive, to say the least.

Germain-Robin makes 10 barrels a year of their XO alambic brandy using the same vintage stills they use in making their other brandies, including the others I have reviewed from their fabulous distillery: the Coast Road Reserve and the silky Single Barrel Colombard.  Their XO is distilled from twelve difference grape sources which includes some premium varietals like Pinot Noir.  It's clear that using such high quality grapes really helps the end product become something special.

Germain-Robin's XO pours a dark gold/amber and smells of sweet caramel apples, ginger, a touch of spice and some subtle oak.  You take a sip and get a rich, deep, yet somehow impressively delicate brandy with soft orchard fruit, vanilla, and hints of chocolate in the soft finish that goes on and on.  Like all of Germain-Robin's spirits, the most impressive thing is the light, incredibly soft, almost ethereal mouthfeel.

Drink This: if you want one of the most well-rounded, complex spirits available.  The mouthfeel of all Germain-Robin's offerings are incredible. 
Don't Drink This: if you can't find it.  But really, go find a bottle and try it.  It's available online!  This could easily make anyone a brandy drinker...