Absheron-Sharab Qiz Qalasi XO 7 Year Old Brandy 500ml

Crafted in Azerbaijan by Absheron-Sharab, one of the country's historic spirits producers established in 1967, "Qiz Qalasi 7 Years" is a distinguished aged Azerbaijani brandy (traditionally designated locally as Konyak). Named after the famous Maiden Tower (Qiz Qalasi), an ancient UNESCO World Heritage monument in Baku, this expression pays homage to Azerbaijan's rich architectural heritage and centuries-old winemaking traditions. Distilled from selected white grape varieties—predominantly Bayanshira and Rkatsiteli—grown in the sun-drenched vineyards of the Absheron Peninsula and surrounding agrarian regions, the base wine undergoes careful temperature-controlled fermentation before being double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills. The eau-de-vie is aged for a minimum of 7 years in Caucasian oak casks (Quercus macranthera), which infuses the spirit with a deep amber tone, structured oak wood character, and a smooth profile balancing ripe dried fruit, honey, vanilla, and soft aromatic spices.

Food Pairing: Dried apricots, fresh figs, roasted walnuts, dark chocolate with almond, aged hard cheeses, or traditional Azerbaijani pastries like Pakhlava and Shekerbura.

Tasting Notes: Rich golden-amber in appearance with warm copper reflexes, superb clarity, a smooth medium body, and graceful, slow-moving tears.

Nose: Aromatic and welcoming, opening with dried yellow plum, sultana raisins, and floral honey, supported by soft toasted oak, sweet vanilla, nutmeg, and subtle cocoa powder.

Palate: Smooth, round, and slightly sweet on the palate, featuring caramelized fruits, honeyed figs, and vanilla upfront before developing into gentle oak tannins, toasted hazelnuts, and mild baking spice.

Finish: Medium-to-long, warm, and harmonious with lingering notes of sweet oak wood, dried fruit conserve, and a gentle peppery warmth.

Serve: Best enjoyed neat at room temperature in a tulip-shaped snifter or cognac glass to concentrate its fruit and oak aromas, or as a sophisticated digestif following a rich meal.