It may not be performance-enhancing, but Rémy Martin XO Excellence is smooth, distinguished, and the reference by which all other Fine Champagne Cognacs are judged.

Since 1724, the House of Rémy Martin has been driven by one quest – to capture the heart of Cognac. And now Rémy Martin XO Excellence, the French house’s Extra Old Fine Champagne Cognac, has taken it one step further by launching the exclusive limited edition XO Gold.

The secret of cognac is in the soil. Rémy Martin only uses grapes from the most respected growing regions, the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, that contain a unique type of chalk-flecked soil that reflects light and ripens the grapes to absolute perfection.

A fiery mahogany colour with deep, amber tones and distinguished touches of jasmine and iris, quaffers will experience ripe notes of late summer figs and candied plum, complemented by hints of cinnamon and dried fruits of autumn.

The decanter has been prestigiously crafted with all-gold shimmery stuff, from its stopper all the way to the lettering. The perfect serve? Neat or on the rocks. And an excellent pairing with a slab of high quality chocolate, apparently.

Limited edition Rémy Martin XO Gold is available from TheWhiskyExchange.com and other reputable drinks retailers for RRP £130.00. www.remymartin.com.