XO in Martell stands for “Extra Old,” which refers to the age of the cognac. Specifically, XO cognacs are made only from eaux-de-vie that have been aged for at least ten years. This aging process imparts a rich and complex flavor profile to the cognac, making it a sought-after choice for connoisseurs.
It is worth noting that the term XO is not exclusive to Martell; it is a designation used throughout the cognac industry. However, Martell is renowned for its exceptional XO cognacs, which are highly regarded for their quality and craftsmanship.
In addition to Martell, other cognac houses also use different terms to indicate a similar age category. For example, cognacs labeled as “Napoleon” or “Old Reserve” are considered equivalent to XO cognac. These terms have historical significance and are still used to denote cognacs with a minimum age requirement.
The reason why these abbreviations are in English, such as XO, Napoleon, or Old Reserve, is rooted in the history of cognac exportation. Cognac has been exported to various countries for many years, and the first importers of cognac happened to be English speakers. Therefore, the terminology used to describe different age categories in cognac adopted English abbreviations.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and learn about different cognacs, including XO offerings from Martell. One particular experience that stands out is when I had the chance to sample Martell XO alongside other XO cognacs from different houses in a blind tasting. The complexity and depth of flavors in Martell XO were truly exceptional, with notes of dried fruits, spices, and oak. It showcased the expertise and artistry of Martell in crafting top-quality cognacs.
To summarize, XO in Martell and cognac in general stands for “Extra Old,” indicating that the eaux-de-vie used in the blend have been aged for a minimum of ten years. Martell, a renowned cognac house, is known for its exceptional XO cognacs, which offer a rich and complex flavor profile. The use of English abbreviations like XO, Napoleon, or Old Reserve is a result of the historical exportation of cognac to English-speaking countries.