Renault Carte d’Argent XO
Whenever I review something other than whisky I feel the need to explain myself. As such, I was going to start this post by saying how, while whisky is king, it can occasionally be nice to tickle your taste buds with other drinks as well; having said that at least two handfuls of times already, however, I would feel silly doing so again. So, from here on out, I will not excuse myself – so there! Now, let’s take a look at a cognac!
If you’ve read my reviews of Dalmore 12 or King Alexander III, it is no secret that I enjoy a sweet whisky. So it may not be a surprise that I like a sweet, fruity, cognac as well, and I’ve recently had the absolute pleasure of tasting Renault’s Carte D’Argent XO – a bottle that will set you back some $115-135 if you’re lucky enough to find one. Before I go on to the taste notes, I have to mention that I absolutely love the bottle. It’s gorgeous to look at, and the feel of it in your hand as you pour it is..magical- very smooth and perfectly shaped to fit in your (well, my) hand.
The nose is incredibly round, it quite literally caresses the inside of your nostrils just on the edge of tickling them, a feeling that instantly makes you melt into its seductive aroma and makes it impossible not to sniff again, and again, and.. With all that smelling, you will no doubt pick up its perfectly balanced combination of plump raisins, perfectly ripe plums, sweet pear, toffee apple, and mild coffee – by God, I could smell it until it made me drunk and fall asleep a very happy man indeed. The palate doesn’t disappoint in the slightest, its smooth texture instantly fills your mouth and fondles your tongue seductively while spreading its mildly chocolaty, fruity, ridiculously well balanced flavors.
While the price may scare you, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second in buying this should you find it and can you spare the cash. If you like a sweet whisky, you will absolutely love this, its pure magic.
Eye: Dark, shimmering, caramel.
Nose: Plump raisins, ripe plums, sweet pear, toffee apple, mild coffee.
Taste: Mild chocolate, fruity (as above), smooth as heaven, divine.