A. de Vacqueur XO Petite Champagne Cognac

A. de Vacqueur XO Petite Champagne Cognac

The A. de Vacqueur XO Petite Champagne Cognac belongs to the “Sélection Cru” range, a collection composed of eaux-de-vie selected from individual Cognac crus and aged for extended periods. This expression is drawn exclusively from Petite Champagne, a cru known for producing structured spirits with strong ageing potential. Classified as Cognac hors d’âge, this bottling has matured for more than forty years in oak casks, allowing time to shape both depth and balance.

Petite Champagne is characterised by its deep chalky soils, which give rise to eaux-de-vie with firm structure and a slow aromatic evolution. Over decades in barrel, these eaux-de-vie develop complexity while retaining clarity and definition. In this XO Petite Champagne, time has played a central role, softening the structure while concentrating aromas and flavours. The result is a Cognac that expresses maturity without excess, shaped by oxidation, evaporation and long interaction with oak.

In the glass, the Cognac shows a deep amber colour with pronounced mahogany reflections. The appearance is bright and dense, indicating both age and concentration. This visual intensity reflects the slow reduction of volume during ageing and the gradual enrichment of the spirit over time.

The aromatic profile opens with depth and precision. Notes of dried fruits and toasted nuts form the first layer, followed by impressions of leather, wax and candied fruits. Tobacco tones emerge naturally, accompanied by a well-developed rancio character that brings earthy, slightly truffled nuances. This rancio note is typical of long-aged Petite Champagne Cognacs and signals advanced maturity without masking the identity of the cru.

On the palate, the entry is broad and supple, spreading evenly across the mouth. The texture is smooth and coating, without heaviness. Flavours of prune and fig lead, supported by notes of cocoa and mature oak. As the tasting develops, gentle spices appear, with cinnamon and tonka bean adding warmth and definition. The structure remains steady throughout, allowing the flavours to unfold gradually rather than all at once.

The finish is long and persistent, maintaining clarity and balance to the end. Warmth, spice and dried fruit notes linger, accompanied by subtle woody tones. Despite its age and concentration, the Cognac avoids excess weight, remaining controlled and composed.

This XO Petite Champagne is bottled at 46.5% vol., a strength that preserves aromatic intensity while maintaining balance. The alcohol is well integrated, supporting the structure rather than dominating it.

Presentation of the bottle

The bottle has a classic Cognac silhouette with rounded shoulders and a solid base, giving it a stable and balanced appearance. The glass is clear, allowing the deep amber colour of the Cognac to be fully visible. A natural cork closure tops the bottle