XO
Complex bitterness, a subtle sweetness Creamy, soft High PopularityNamed 'XO' for its distinctive alcoholic twist, this durian usually has a pale yellow flesh, depending on the region and age of the trees. It has a strong bitter taste with an alcoholic undertone, ideal for those who prefer durians with a strong and bitter profile. The flesh is thick with small flat seeds. Best enjoyed straight from the fruit as handling turns it into a mushy mass. XO is actually a variant of the D24 durian, but with a more intense flavor profile. It is often considered a premium choice among durian enthusiasts.
Price Range
RM70 - RM100 per kg
Season
June - September
Taste
Complex bitterness, a subtle sweetness
Aroma
Strong, pungent
Where to Find
Available at most durian stalls in Penang, especially in Balik Pulau, Teluk Bahang, Air Itam and George Town
Flavor Profile
Characteristics
Personal Comment for XO
Inspect the Durian and Confirm Prices
Always begin by examining the displayed durians. If many appear subpar, be more caution and it's wise to look elsewhere.
Durian prices are highly variable, much like currency exchange rates. What you paid previously, even recently, might not apply today or tomorrow. Therefore, always confirm the price, even if a tag is visible, to avoid surprises after packing (e.g., being told the displayed price was for a different durian).
And given the highly personal nature of taste – everyone experiences flavors like sweetness and bitterness uniquely – it's best to trust your own palate by requesting a tasting from the seller.
Search Other Durian Varieties
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D24 Sultan
A classic durian variety loved for its rich sweetness and firm texture. D24, also known as Sultan, was very popular in the 1990s before Musang King took over. It strikes a good balance between sweet and bitter flavors with a thick, firm, smooth and creamy flesh. It also has a mild alcoholic aftertaste. The yellow flesh has a less pronounced flavor compared to Musang King, making it less overwhelming for first-time durian eaters. If you like D24 but prefer a more intense flavor, try the XO as it is a variant of D24 but with a more intense flavor profile.
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D15
Bitter and alcoholic, a tree-dropped D15 is hard to beat for those who enjoy strong-flavored durians. It offers a complex taste experience that is quite different from the sweeter varieties. Best enjoyed when dropped naturally from the tree to experience its full flavor profile.
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Let me tell you, if you are a durian lover who thinks you have tasted it all, you have to meet the XO durian. This isn't just any durian; it's the one that apparently went to a fancy boarding school and developed a taste for the finer things in life... specifically, booze!
Seriously, this unique durian gets its name because its flavor is often compared to alcoholic drinks. Why? Because it chills out in its shell for a bit longer, letting a natural fermentation process do its thing. Think of it as a durian that's been aged to perfection, like a fine wine or, well, an XO cognac!
So, what's it like to actually eat one?
Taste and Smell: The first thing that hits you is usually a bitter kick, but then BAM! You get this really strong, almost boozy, fermented aftertaste. It's truly wild. Some folks also say it has a milky bittersweet thing going on, which sounds like it's trying to be fancy and comforting at the same time. And the smell? Oh, it's got that pungent, fermented aroma that lets you know you're in for a unique ride. If you're sensitive to durian smells, this one might make your nose do a double-take!
Look and Feel: When you crack one open, you will usually see pale yellow flesh, though some might be a bit more vibrant. The texture is where it really shines: it's incredibly soft, creamy, and melts in your mouth. It can be anywhere from a bit watery to nice and sticky, but always super smooth. Some even describe it as having a "wholesome yeasty sweetness with a pleasant astringent pull on the tongue." Sounds like it's trying to be both a dessert and a palate cleanser! The fruit itself is generally on the smaller side, with a thin, brownish-green husk and usually small seeds, which is always a bonus!
Is it, like, a cousin to the D24?
You got it! The XO durian isn't really a whole separate species, but more like a super-evolved, more mature version of the D24 durian. People even call it "D24 XO" or "Sultan." Think of it this way: if the D24 is a fresh-faced teenager, the XO durian is its older, wiser (and slightly more boozy) sibling. It's definitely richer and more intense than your standard D24, so if you like your durians with a bit more oomph, this is your jam.
When can I get my hands on one?
Just like many other durian superstars, the peak season for XO durian is usually between June and August. So, if you are planning a durian adventure, mark your calendars!
Have you ever dared to try an XO durian, or does the idea of a "boozy" durian make you a little nervous?