Although not widely available in the U.S. market, Remi Landier is a reference-point, small grower in the Fins Bois cru with fifth-generation owner Geraldine Landier at the helm. Getting right to it, this single-cask XO shows how seriously we should be taking the finest Fins Bois expressions. Double-distilled in 2011 on a Charentais copper pot still, it was put through a complex aging regimen of two years in new French oak, eight years in used French oak, and two months in a pair of new, 225-liter barriques with extra toast. The result is a bold yet utterly refined powerhouse. The aromatic profile boasts serious complexity with rich candied orange, tangerine, apricot, and mulled cider accented by sweet barrel notes of clove and vanilla pod. A showcase of great depth and nuance, it then turns towards cherry compote, cedar spice, black currant, cardamom, apple pastry, pecan pie filling, sandalwood, and new leather. The palate is every bit as serious with its medium-full weight, head-turning complexity, and serious textural grip, all underpinned by a subtle mineral frame. It shows some heat, but it’s totally approachable with flavors of medicinal orange and peach, stewed apple and pear, and loads of complex spices – clove, anise, cardamom, vanilla, and clean white pepper. The finish goes out with a bang in a succession of dark tobacco, black currant, and blueberry liqueur. One for the thinkers, not for the drinkers.
95 points, Andrew Kitz, B-21 Spirits Buyer (Sep 2025)
Top Quality Store
