Park XO Borderies Blossom is an XO Cognac made entirely from the Borderies cru, and the floral character in its name is what sets it apart. It is made by Distillerie Tessendier & Fils and bottled at 40% ABV. The eaux-de-vie in the blend were aged for between 10 and 15 years in French oak.
 
The nose is floral first: violet and iris, with red berries and dried apricot. The palate is round and velvety, with hazelnut, gingerbread and a refined oak note. The finish is long, with candied orange, fruit and oak, so the florals give way to a fruit and wood finish rather than staying perfumed throughout.
 
The supplier recommends drinking it neat in a tulip-shaped glass, which suits a cognac where the aromatics are a large part of the interest. If you’re new to cognac and unsure which style you’d like, ask in store.
 
Tasting Notes
 
Nose: Violet and iris, with red berries and dried apricot
Palate: Round and velvety, with hazelnut, gingerbread and refined oak
Finish: Lingering candied orange, fruit and oak