Grand Marnier Quintessence 80

Created in 2011, Quintessence is made with the most precious cognac from the private reserves of the Marnier-Lapostolle family. GRAND MARNIER® Cellar Master Patrick Raguenaud has carefully selected very rare cognacs coming exclusively from Grande Champagne, the most prestigious growing area of Cognac. He then blended these outstanding eaux-de-vie with very old cognac from the family Paradis, their private cellar. These cognacs date back to 1906. This rare and unique blend of cognacs is then combined with unique double distilled Citrus Bigaradia orange essence resulting from a time honored secret GRAND MARNIER® process. Instead of being macerated in neutral alcohol, oranges are macerated in a very aromatic orange essence before being distilled. The result is a very subtle essence, the quintessence of orange distillation. The blend of cognac and orange essence is then aged in French oak casks, so that the flavors can mature together; reach the perfect balance and the quintessential taste.

Color
Vibrant amber hues and copper reflections when light plays on its texture.

Aroma
Fresh, lively and delectable, lovely orange notes followed by fruity, floral and heavier notes of almond and vanilla.

We are quite impressed by Quintessence. Despite being 80 proof, it was gentle in the mouth—it is viscous, and oozes flavors of orange, toffee, and more. A drink as good is this must be consumed alone, in a quiet place, and from a very small glass. This is the only way one might be able to fully appreciate its depth. And after pouring one’s first nip of it, one should lock the bottle up so as to avoid the soon-to-come overwhelming desire to have a second.

Those looking to purchase a bottle better hurry—only a limited number are available, and they probably will go quickly.