There’s a touch of gold in the limited edition Rémy Martin XO that has just arrived on Australian shores, adding another level of exclusivity to this cognac for discerning drinkers.
Rémy Martin XO’s curved glass decanter is already instantly recognisable, the product celebrated around the world for its opulent blend of eau de vie from the most sought-after vineyards of Cognac.
The limited-edition release comes in a shimmering gold box, while the decanter has gold leaf enamel serigraphy made in part from 18-karat gold. It was produced in collaboration with Atelier Thiery, a gilding studio in Paris known for its exquisite work.
Drawing on generations of expertise, Atelier Thiery applied an ancient French gilding technique, verre églomisé, to the decanter. The box housing it was adorned with gold foils, creating a sensational mirror-like textured effect.
Rémy Martin sees the alliance of cognac and gold as a celebration of its heritage (almost 300 years) while creating a new lens to imagine the future with. Both brands proudly bear the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company) label, awarded by the French Government to companies that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to craftsmanship in fashion, gastronomy, interior design or spirit-making.
Rémy Martin XO x Atelier Thiery limited edition decanter is available from specialist liquor stores including Valore Cellars, Bordeaux Wine Century, Bass Hill Liquor, Porters Liquor, Steve’s Liquor Springvale, Mulgrave Cellars, Centerway Cellars Keilor East, Old Richmond Cellars, Bottlemart Moonee Ponds, and Valore Cellars Bass Hill. Recommended retail price is $260.
We had the privilege of tasting Rémy Martin XO at a very special dinner in the Opera Circle at Bennelong Restaurant, held to celebrate the launch of the Atelier Thiery limited edition. This is one of Sydney finest dining spaces, located in the Opera House with magnificent city and harbour views.
Executive chef Peter Gilmore and head chef Rob Cockerill presented a magnificent three-course menu in their inimitable style, preceded by cocktails made from cognac and ginger beer, followed by a digestif of the XO neat. Rich, fruity and full-bodied, it was such a treat, with flavours of orange, cinnamon and hazelnuts, velvety mouthfeel and lingering finish.
Every bottle of Rémy Martin XO contains around 400 eaux de vie from Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne vineyards. These are the most revered vineyards in Cognac (not to be confused with the region in France where Champagne is produced – there’s an excellent post on eater.com with all you need to know about how it is produced and classified).
The eaux de vie from these top vineyards offer exceptional aging potential and produce what is known as Cognac Fine Champagne. Rémy Martin XO Excellence is the signature of the Cellar Master whose skill in blending enables him to perfectly express the full aromatic complexity of this XO Fine Champagne cognac.
During the launch at Bennelong, Rémy Martin brand ambassador, Josh O’Brian, said the partnership with Atelier Thiery had created something truly special. “It’s all about having your feet planted in the earth but your head in the stars,” he said.
With thanks to Rémy Martin for inviting Food Wine Travel to this very special event.
