Hennessy Cognac

The world's most popular cognac, the versatility of Hennessey makes it well-loved by people around the world. Its delicious taste pairs well in both traditional and exciting new cocktails, making Hennessy a must-have at bars and parties. The distiller's dedication to the product produces the same taste every time. Meticulous attention to detail is one of the reasons Hennessy is a mainstay in pop culture. The bold flavors of Hennessey disappoint no one.

 

The Many Notes of Hennessy

The first thing you notice is the beautiful amber hue of Hennessy. Take a sip and you are instantly warmed by the creamy texture, vanilla fresh taste, and floral finish. Matured in new oak barrels, Hennessy is bold and fragrant. The robust flavors are defined on your palate from the first sip. The versatile brown sugar flavor adds a nice depth to your favorite cocktails. The cognac pairs well with popular bourbon mixed drinks and rum favorites. No matter the cocktail, Hennessey adds delicious subtle flavors. Notice the aroma of fresh toast that comes from almond and subtle vine fruits. The notes that stay on your palate after a strong beverage can be rough, but the floral finish of Hennessy produces an easy-to-enjoy taste. There is no need to wash it down.



How the Cognac is Made

  1. Harvest
  • Once a year, perfectly mature grapes are quickly harvested. Ugni Blanc grapes are well-suited for the distillation process. These late-maturing grapes strike the right balance between high acidity and a low alcohol content This is ideal for well-balanced Eaux-de-vie (colorless fruity brandy). This is where the complex fruit notes create the tastes for a delicious finish.
  • Spirits bearing the Cognac Protected Appellation of Origin (PDO) must follow regulated specifications. The grapes must be grown in Cognac, and the wine made from them must be produced in the region. This is defined by the strict borders encircling the Charente River. If the grapes are not grown or the cognac is not made in this region, you can taste the difference.
  • The vineyards of Cognac have a usable surface area of approximately 75,000 hectares. This land is divided into six groups (crus). Throughout the year, they follow the natural life cycle of the vines. When winter approaches, they prune and tie the barren vines. In the spring, sap rises from the roots and the first leaves and buds appear. An unmistakable scent fills the air, and soon the first fruits begin to appear. It is the warmth of the sun that matures them in time for Autumn's harvest.



  1. Distillation
  • Over the years, Hennessy has remained faithful to the same distillation process. Between October and the end of March, the distilleries are busy throughout the day and into the night. Artisans fill, monitor, and cosset the traditional Charentais copper stills. This process of transforming wine into eaux-de-vie harnesses the liquid’s volatile compounds. A long, delicate distillation preserves the wine.
  • Double distillation makes eaux-de-vie for cognac. First, a raw spirit called “brouillis” is produced. The second distillation produces a higher alcohol content. Only the middle part, the “heart,” is saved. This clear liquid is eaux-de-vie.
  • It takes approximately 12kg of grapes to obtain one liter of eaux-de-vie. The process begins with pressing the grapes and produces 9 liters of wine. Distilled once, this results in 3 liters of brouillis. Distilled a second time, it generates one liter of pure eaux-de-vie.



  1. Maturation
  • Eaux-de-vie ages in barrels, creating that golden amber hue. The liquid rotates between different barrels, allowing it to reach its full complexity.
  • The eaux-de-vie is raised in carefully monitored cellars. Temperature and lighting are important factors. Eaux-de-vie is aged in cellars, referred to as “chais.” If raised in humid cellars close to the Charente River, the liquid is mellow and rounder. Those raised in drier chais are more robust.



  1. Tasting
  • With the help of the tasting committee, the master blender selects the best Eaux-de-vie.
  • The tasting committee has met at 11:00 am every day for over 200 years. Once selected, the Eaux-de-vie is tasted once a year to ensure its maturation process.



The process, from picking the grapes to bottling the final result, takes years of dedication The distillers and all those involved in the process are meticulous. Their goal is to create the same product every time. Like those that purchase and enjoy the comforts of Hennessy, they value consistency. The cognac tasters dedicate themselves to ensuring that every product maintains the same standards as the ones before it. Grab a bottle off the shelf and enjoy your favorite cocktail. Whether you are new to cognac or not, Hennessy is the best edition to your at-home bar.

 

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