This is where the English goes a bit awry, XO being ‘(E)Xtra Old’, reflecting the cognac made of ancient eau-de-vie that Maurice Hennessy used to make for his coterie of friends.
‘Ancient’ here means over 100 reserve spirits up to 30 years in age; the age factor clearly evident in the depth and breadth of the palate, the extraordinary velveteen smoothness and texture, and the rich wood/honey notes from the extended maturation.
Mixes best with a cigar.