Brancoveanu X.O Vinars

Review #3 - Brandy / Cognac #1 Nose - rather alcoholic and it did not seem to open up very nicely initially. Once it did open up a bit, the dominant aromas were of oak and honey, and some dried fruit as well, with some faint sweetness and spice. Maybe a touch of vanilla as well. After further extended oxidation in the bottle there is also a sour note, which is not very pleasant. Palate - very oaky, some fruit (mainly dried fruit), but also with honey and vanilla from the oak cask, maybe some nuttiness. There is some noticeable oak spice, which at times may feel slightly unbalanced. Some effervescence is noticeable as well, with an oily feel on the palate. Finish - medium, dry, oaky, oily, with some rather strong oak spice as well. There is also some faint sweetness. It is fairly interesting and pleasant, although not the smoothest, despite its age. The spiciness is quite disturbing at times. 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

Oak and caramel