Germain-Robin Select Barrel XO Brandy

The aroma is predominantly wood and alcohol. The palate is creamy with vanilla, butterscotch, hints of orange blossom, and more alcohol than I'd prefer. There's some spicy harshness, but the creaminess softens it somewhat. The bitterness is unfortunately a bit too much. There's a decent amount happening, but not a tremendous amount overall; the flavor doesn't quite come through, which is an issue. This is superior to the younger Germain-Robin and also surpasses the apple brandy, but it's still not particularly exciting. The cherry note appears, but it's subtle enough. The drink's main problem is this biting alcohol element combined with a lack of distinct flavor expression. Still, it's a decent sipper. There's enough going on to make it somewhat interesting. It's not quite indulgent, but it's worth considering.

[APPEARANCE] A robust amber color, quite lovely [AROMA] Pastry glaze, orange slices in rose water, milk tea bubble tea, overly steeped sweet tea, tarte tatin, numerous lightly caramelized fall fruit flavors, a sprinkle of lemon juice [PALATE] Begins with a touch of bitterness, then stewed apricots & peaches, followed by yellow skittles, a hint of vanilla, sour grape skins appear and disappear, a very vibrant fruit masquerade ball, concludes with a subtle and welcome stemmy tannin bitterness [FINISH] Acidic and juicy, the acidity fades and fruit juice is the final taste detected [MOUTHFEEL] Much lighter than anticipated after nosing, delicate, gentle, unbelievably satisfying and enjoyable