Aimed at accessibility and gastronomy, Malternative Belgium issued a slightly reduced, multi-vintage XO (41.5%) and a punchier single-estate Grande Champagne (57.7%) as part of its Gastronomic Waves series.
XO 26 (41.5%) is a deliberately slightly reduced assemblage of four cognacs designed for easy drinking and wider appeal.
François Voyer 19.89 (57.7%) is a single Grande Champagne release in Malternative’s Gastronomic Waves #3, bottled at cask strength character and geared toward food pairing.
# What was released
# How the two expressions differ XO 26 is an assemblage that combines four cognacs of different ages. It's bottled at 41.5% and was intentionally slightly reduced to make it accessible and easy to drink. The reference XO26 suggests Malternative may position this as an ongoing, possibly annual release.
# Tasting snapshot: XO 26 (41.5%) Nose: Citrus peel (orange), hints of liquorice, mint and citron liqueur. Floral touches (jasmine), faint varnish and a slight metallic or green note reminiscent of flower buds.
Palate: Bright and immediately accessible. Unripe orange and a pronounced spearmint character lead, with oily texture and fruit notes like quince and greengage. Fresh herbs and a mild aromatic floral presence sit in the background.
Finish: Short, focused on mint with peach and very light waxy notes. The composition appears deliberate—aimed at removing rough edges and offering refinement over boldness.
# Tasting snapshot: François Voyer 19.89 (57.7%) Nose: Lively citrus, orange marmalade, melon, yellow plums and pink grapefruit. Classic floral notes (orange blossom, jasmine) move toward potpourri. Underneath are varnish, light baking spice and minty highlights.
Palate: Orchard fruits shift toward peach and apricot. Tight varnish and herbal tea notes appear, followed by a woody mid-palate and pepper. Tobacco and drying leather develop in the later stages.
Finish: Long and slightly sweeter over time, with stewed apricot, pepper and a honey-herbal note. The spirit shows wood influence and a firmness that can feel a little tight.
# Who should try each bottle XO 26: Recommended for drinkers seeking an approachable, refined cognac to sip casually or introduce to newcomers. It's positioned to win over a wider audience rather than challenge cognac connoisseurs.
François Voyer 19.89: Recommended for collectors and drinkers who prefer higher-strength, terroir-driven cognacs that pair with savoury dishes and tolerate stronger oak influence.
# Availability and impressions
# Practical takeaway If you want an easy-drinking, conversation-friendly cognac, XO 26 is the pick. If you want a bolder Grande Champagne expression for tasting with food, seek the 19.89 bottling while stocks last.
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