On February 18, the Chinese New Year marks the year of the pig (or boar), an animal that's revered -- in China at least -- for its fertility and virility. To honor the creature, Landy has released a limited-edition hand-blown glass cognac decanter featuring a boar.
This is not the first time the company has commissioned critter-themed containers. In 2006, there was a dog, and in 2005 a rooster took center stage. Each bottle contains the same precious stuff: XO cognac, which has been aged for 45 years. XO, "extra old," is the good stuff -- better than V.S. (Very Special) and V.S.O.P. (Very Superior Old Pales). Landy's XO pours a copper-brown color and has an aroma of sweet spices, vanilla and dried fruits. It is not especially heavy or viscous; this is medium-bodied 80-proof brandy. The flavors wash over the palate -- first with sweetness up front, then spiciness, and finally a wave of peppery heat and caramel-like candy.
The cognac is not new; the packaging is. So if you just want to taste the stuff, $70 gets you a regular bottle. Pay $300 and you get the fancy decanter packaged in a collector's box lined with satin and featuring a certificate of authenticity. That's some pig.
