Description

Louis XIll is a prestigious cuvée indeed. First introduced in 1874, it is comprised of over 1200 eaux de vie from the Grande Champagne region aging from 40 up to 100 years. As would be expected, the packaging for this bottling is quite ornate. Each crystal decanter is hand-blown and hand numbered with no two exactly alike.

“A tantalizing, rich nose unfolds in layers, with a floral bouquet of violets and jasmine followed by butterscotch and creamy vanilla, and finally hints of earthy leather, mushrooms, and oak. The palate is almost sticky and resinous it's so concentrated, offering honey, dates, dried orange peel, fig jam, and nuts, as well as nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. This continues into a luscious, lengthy finish which evolves as it keeps going and going. Bright bursts of raspberries and another floral flourish at the back, alongside cigar box and well worn leather to close the show.”

Jake Emen, Whisky and Spirits Writer 99/100