365 | Spirits | Liqueur, $100 and up

"The palate is balanced between the citric acid, alcohol, Cognac and wood, with the Cognac always prevailing. Concludes with finesse, a sweet-sour presence, and an incredibly lush texture." 96-100 pts.

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.

"The bouquet is intense but balanced; the triple orange is the ideal companion to the old Cognac. The palate entry tastes wonderfully of orange zest, tangerine and Cognac. Ends up remarkably mellow and textured." 96-100 pts.

"Extra-aged Green Chartreuse. Aromas are keenly botanical and vegetal/woodsy. The palate shows peppermint, citrus peel, and sage along with the herbs and botanicals. Concludes with finesse and power." 96-100 pts.

"Extra-aged Yellow Chartreuse. Prickly scents of bramble, fennel, and licorice are followed by a supple sweetness. Palate is floral, with sage, saffron, elderberry, anise, licorice, flowers, and thyme. Finishes elegantly, softer and divinely satisfying." 96-100 pts.