XO Pinar del Rio is a mature and distinctive Cognac from Cognac Gautier, named after the Cuban region of Pinar del Río, traditionally associated with cigar culture. It is crafted from a carefully selected blend of eaux-de-vie sourced from several Cognac crus, including Grande and Petite Champagne, and aged well beyond the minimum XO requirement.
Maturation takes place in Gautier’s naturally humid cellars above the Osme River, contributing to its rounded texture and aromatic depth. The nose is rich and evolved, with notes of dried fruits, candied orange peel, honey, gingerbread, and subtle rancio, supported by vanilla and fine oak.
On the palate it is full-bodied and harmonious, with integrated wood influence and a long, warming finish. The style emphasizes elegance and maturity, making it particularly suited to slow sipping and pairing with cigars.
Producer
Cognac Gautier is one of the oldest Cognac houses in the world, founded in 1755 and located in Aigre, in the Charente region of France. The house is distinguished by its historic cellars built directly above the Osme River, where naturally high humidity creates ideal conditions for slow, balanced aging and enhanced aromatic roundness.
Gautier works with eaux-de-vie sourced from several Cognac crus, including Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Fins Bois, and Bons Bois, which are blended to achieve harmony and complexity. Distillation follows the traditional Charentais double distillation method, with a strong emphasis on smoothness and texture.
The style of Cognac Gautier is typically rich and supple, marked by notes of ripe and tropical fruit, vanilla, gentle spice, and well-integrated oak. Its range includes classic VS, VSOP, and XO expressions, alongside older and limited releases that reflect the house’s long heritage and cellar expertise.