Metaxa 12 Stars

Review #21 - Brandy / Cognac #4 Nose - compared to the Metaxa 7 stars, it's heavier, darker, much richer, very pleasing, still quite fruity and floral. Palate - noticeable dried fruit notes, grapes, plums, and it's warm, heavy, rich, very oily, sweet, and with honey. There's a significant spicy alcohol burn at first, which is somewhat unexpected, but it quickly calms down. Finish - medium, perhaps on the shorter side, and it's very pleasing...apparently shorter than the Metaxa 7 stars, which is unexpected. It also has less dry oak on the finish than the latter, though it's still subtly present. It's very pleasing, but also very sweet. Rating System: 5.0 - Perfect 4.5 - Exceptional 4.0 - Very Good 3.5 - Good 3.0 - Decent 2.5 - Average 2.0 - Below Average 1.5 - Barely Drinkable 1.0 - Undrinkable 0.5 - JB

A rich Brandy from Metaxa Distillery in Greece, created with a mix of brandy and wine. It features Savatiano, Black Corinth, and Sultana grape varieties, along with Muscat wine from the Samos and Lemnos islands. A secret blend of Mediterranean herbs and floral extracts are added, and it's aged in both medium and heavy toasted French Limousin oak barrels. It has an aromatic beginning with notes of fruit, wood, flowers, herbs, and spices. A rich middle adds flavors of baked stone fruits and orange zest, leading to a balanced, medium-length finish with notes of vanilla, toffee, and chocolate. August / September 2023

The aroma is quite floral and wine-like, with a grape-prominent fragrance. It has a light body but is rich in flavor, making it a liqueur unlike any other. The brandy component plays a supporting role, but the botanicals, with their flowery character, are the main attraction. The wine becomes noticeable about halfway through the tasting, contributing a solid grape flavor. The finish is lengthy, with lingering floral notes, creating an intriguing conclusion. It's unique and highly recommended for use in various cocktails.

Subtle aroma of almonds, dried fruits, zest, caramel, and menthol. Lively taste of dried fruits, chocolate, caramel, and mint. Lingering finish with hints of dried fruits and caramel. Exceptionally well-balanced and easy to drink.

Very sweet and floral with succulent fruits. The rose petals are quite prominent. It evokes Turkish delight.

An intriguing product, similar to a spiced brandy, with a very strong presence of dried fruit.