Deux Familles XO Cognac
Deux Familles XO Cognac is the range's classic extra-old expression: a minimum-10-year blend of Petite Champagne and Fins Bois crus, aged in French oak with a final maturation in the brand's signature rare "red" casks. Bottled at 43.6% ABV (87.2 proof), 700mL — available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
From the same Deux Familles project as the 1952 Single Cask and the Madeira-finished Single Batch — small, provenance-transparent releases honoring generational savoir-faire. The XO is the traditionalist of the trio: old-port richness and bourbon-vanilla oak from a decade in wood, finished in tannin-light "red" French oak casks that let the fruit speak. (Do not confuse this with the separate "10 Casks Batch Selection XO" SKU — this bottle is the standard XO at 43.6%.)
Tasting notes (from Del Mesa's own listing, importer-provided): refined aromas of candied orange, plum, vanilla, and toasted almonds on the nose; a rich, full-bodied palate of dark chocolate, caramelized figs, and spiced oak; an exceptionally smooth, lingering finish of honey, nutmeg, and roasted coffee beans. Independent retailer notes echo it: sultana, candied pear, Christmas pudding, cinnamon, clove, toasted bread, bourbon vanilla — finishing with pale leather and cigar box.
Why buy this cognac? Because it is a true 10-year XO with named crus and honest cask practice at a fair $89.99 — the connoisseur's sweet spot between everyday VSOP and collector-grade single casks. Browse the Deux Familles brand collection, more cognac, and other fine spirits.
Serving note: neat in a snifter at room temperature, or with a single drop of water to open the layered fruit and spice. Pairs with fine cigars and dark chocolate desserts — "a quiet evening of reflection."
How old is Deux Familles XO Cognac? Aged a minimum of 10 years — the XO (Extra Old) designation requires the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend to be at least 10 years old.
What regions is it from? A blend of Petite Champagne and Fins Bois crus, finished in rare "red" French oak casks — 43.6% ABV, 700mL.
How should I drink cognac XO? Neat at room temperature in a tulip or snifter; a single drop of water can unlock the candied fruit and spice. Pair with dark chocolate or a fine cigar.