A TIME FOR CHRISTMAS PUDDING AND COGNAC

Flambé it over pudding, drink it neat or with ice; this is the spirit for the season.

RÉMY MARTIN 1738 ACCORD ROYAL

The 1738 Accord Royal is a nod to the year King Louis XV bestowed an award of excellence to Rémy Martin. The glistening amber hue results from ageing a blend of eaux-de-vie (unaged brandy) in oak barrels sourced from the forests of Limousin or Tronçais (and some caramel colour for extra measure). Full body and concentrated, it opens to candied oranges and dried fruit and evolves into toffee and butterscotch notes. Perfect for cognac-based cocktails like Sazerac and Sidecar, the 1738 is a versatile and affordable sip. $108, lazada.com

FERRAND SÉLECTION DES ANGES

The house of Pierre Ferrand exclusively uses fruit from the premier cru region of Grand Champagne to fashion its range of cognacs. The cellar masters employ on-the-lees distillation and an ageing regime involving a selection of Limousin oak barrels across different warehouses. Based on a blend of 30 to 55-year-old eaux -de- vie, Sélection des Anges (Angel’s selection) references Angel’s share – the portion of cognac lost in evaporation during the ageing process. Creamy and smooth, expect notes of beeswax, dried apricots, raisins and some nutty nuances of cashews and almonds. $290, EC Proof

HENNESSY XO

XO is the highest tier of cognacs and, Hennessy produces a remarkable expression – opulent, smooth, and persistent. Legend has it that 200 years ago, Maurice Hennessy, founder of the house, created a private blend for his friends, which later turned into the first XO of the region. The final product is a blend of 1000 eaux-de-vie, the youngest at least ten years old. Best enjoyed neat in a snifter glass, with a box of dark chocolates if you so desire. Look out for artistic reinterpretations of the iconic bottle, most recently done by the talented Frank Gehry.

$278, The Liquor Shop