We’re back to Cognac advent calendars for our second year, with this time again, the Cognac-Expert advent calendar. Before we start with the first cognac of this 2025 Cognac-Expert Advent Calendar, a Ragnaud Sabourin XXO Cognac, let me add a disclaimer, for transparency purposes. If you read my reviews last year, you saw that most of the cognacs were delicious or even utterly splendid, with just a few of them being of a lower level. But, once again, this was my own and humble opinion, based on my analysis and my preferences, so it’s not the Holy Word. If last year I had bought myself the advent calendar, I was lucky that this year it was sent to me by Cognac-Expert directly, with no strings attached. We were all clear that I would still write what I want and what I think, as I’ve always done, and as I plan to always do. Thanks again to Taylor at Cognac-Expert, who handled all that. It’s very appreciated! End of disclaimer, let’s crack on with the holy liquid that was in yesterday’s pouch!
Ragnaud Sabourin XXO Grande Champagne Cognac Review
A few months ago, we tasted a Ragnaud Sabourin Grande Réserve and enjoyed it, so expectations run high for this bottle. Ragnaud Sabourin made the XXO from Ugni Blanc and Folle Blanche grapes grown in Grande Champagne, and distilled the spirit on its lees. The eaux-de-vie matured in old, fûts roux casks (meaning used casks) stored in a humid cellar. Ragnaud Sabourin bottles this cognac at 40% ABV without additives, and it typically sells for around €140 at retailers like Cognac-Expert.
Colour:
Ginger.
Nose:
Neat: The nose opens with candied fruits and warm spices—nutmeg, cinnamon, and hints of white pepper—alongside dried apricots, peaches, candied oranges, and lime. Subtle notes of varnished old woods and bookshelves emerge, mingled with whispers of pipe tobacco, rancio, old prunes, and leather. It evokes a classic ‘old and dignified’ character reminiscent of a now replaced Scotch Malt Whisky Society category.
Palate:
Neat: The arrival feels light at first, reflecting the 40% ABV bottling, but it quickly develops a silky texture. A surprising peppery tingle surfaces alongside the sensation of sparkling candy—sweet and bright but with a bite. Flavours of candied cherries, dried orange slices, and dark old wood lead to light tannins and bitterness. Dark chocolate (around 80% cocoa) and winter spices, reminiscent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Perfect for the incoming festive season.
Finish:
The finish carries warm wood notes that grow in intensity. They’re joined by peppery spices, toasted whole-grain bread, gingerbread, and a subtle touch of dry white wine.
Comments:
Lovely start with this classic Ragnaud Sabourin XXO Grande Champagne cognac—well crafted and flavourful. It would benefit from a lighter reduction to unleash more texture. The likely chill filtration removed some oils and fats, which could have added richer mouthfeel. Despite that, it remains a very good Grande Champagne cognac and an excellent opening for this year’s advent calendar.
Rating: 7/10
Advent calendar provided by Cognac-Expert. Lead image courtesy of Ragnaud Sabourin with modifications.