Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (84)
1993? Unless this is Macallan. I'm joking. Colour: gold. Nose: this is a rather grassier one, tougher than the Bache, less rounded and 'easy-easy', with notes of bourbon too, then a little warm rhum, sugar cane, roasted pecans and peanuts, burnt raisins, then a little eucalyptus, toffee, mocha… I find this lovely, and probably not very 'old-school Cognac'. Mouth: it's fun to find notes of rhum again (agricole), nougat, butterscotch, fudge… A wee rusticity, a few bitter herbs, parsley, some liquorice, black tea… Finish: rather long, rather more 'traditional' at this point. A little oak and more black tea in the aftertaste, as well as a drop of pastis, proof that this is French spirit indeed. LOL. Comments: early landed? I'm not totally floored yet here (ha) but we're already way above the Bache.
BOW (87)
Sample X 27 Years Brandy: A French Elixir by Kintra Spirits & The Rum Mercenary
In the world of fine spirits, there are those that transcend time, evolving into liquid legacies that tell tales of craftsmanship and maturation. Sample X, a 27-year-old brandy, stands as a testament to the artistry of Kintra Spirits and The Rum Mercenary. Distilled in 1993 and bottled in April 2021, this golden elixir offers a sensory journey that is both complex and intriguing.
### A Glimpse of Gold
As the bottle of Sample X is uncorked, a rich gold hue greets the beholder. This visual prelude sets the stage for an experience that promises depth and character, a liquid memoir of nearly three decades of maturation.
### Nosing the Complexity
The olfactory adventure begins with notes that deviate from the typical brandy profile. Sample X presents a grassier nose, a touch tougher than its counterparts. Unlike the rounded and 'easy-easy' character of some brandies, this one boasts nuances of bourbon, warm rhum, sugar cane, and roasted pecans and peanuts. The symphony continues with burnt raisins, eucalyptus, toffee, and mocha—an aromatic dance that is both unexpected and delightful.
### A Playful Palate
The journey doesn't stop at the nose; Sample X unfolds on the palate with a playful spirit. Notes of rhum (agricole) make a welcome appearance, accompanied by nougat, butterscotch, and fudge. A subtle rusticity emerges, complemented by hints of bitter herbs, parsley, and a touch of black tea. This is not your typical brandy; it's a nuanced expression that challenges the conventional palate.
### A Lingering Finale
The finish of Sample X is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. As the liquid elixir bids farewell, the more 'traditional' elements make their presence felt. A touch of oak, black tea, and a subtle drop of pastis round off the experience, leaving a lasting impression that is undeniably French.
### Unveiling the Essence
Sample X prompts contemplation—was it early landed, or does its unique character arise from the skilled hands that nurtured it over the years? While the taster may not be immediately floored, there's a sense of elevation, a step above the ordinary. The experience of Sample X transcends the baseline, offering a glimpse into the realm of fine spirits that push boundaries and redefine expectations.
### Closing Thoughts
In the world of premium spirits, Sample X stands as a distinctive creation by Kintra Spirits & The Rum Mercenary. Bottled at 46.3%, this brandy invites enthusiasts to explore a realm where age is not just a number but a testament to the alchemy of time and craftsmanship. Sample X is not just a drink; it's a narrative—a liquid poem composed of carefully chosen notes that defy conventions and celebrate the art of distillation. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or an adventurous palate, Sample X beckons you to savor the unexpected and relish the richness of a 27-year-old journey in a bottle.
