We’ve reviewed numerous particular editions from iconic Cognac producer Hennessy through the years, however its core line has unusually eluded our pen. At the moment we start to rectify that with a have a look at two stalwarts of Hennessy’s core line: VS and XO.
Each are 80 proof.
Hennessy VS Cognac – The entry degree Hennessy is by regulation aged for not less than two years in oak barrels, however the distillery doesn’t make any claims past that. For a brandy that’s most likely consumed principally alongside a mixer like cola, it does the job. By no means harsh or bruising, the nostril is gentle and recent, representing a best hits of Cognac expectations: light raisin, incense, combined flowers heavy on lavender. Evenly candy on the palate, the brown sugar character up prime drifts into notes of unpolluted linen, extra lavender, jasmine, vanilla, and a light-weight reprise of juicy raisins. Clear and delicate on the end, the brandy might supply the bottom degree of total sweetness of any main VS bottling that I’ve encountered, which helps to make it arguably the perfect entry-level expression of Cognac available on the market. A- / $43 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]
Hennessy XO Cognac – XO Cognacs should be aged for not less than 10 years as of 2018, and once more Hennessy provides no added particulars on this, which might be its most extremely regarded expression this aspect of the $1200 Hennessy Paradis. You may scent the distinction vs. the VS from the second you open the bottle, the place you’re greeted by notes of darker raisins, virtually plum-like, a stronger alcoholic punch (although it’s additionally 40% abv), and a bolder lavender-floral laundry character. Fragrant hints of orange peel and grapefruit come together with a little bit of time in glass. The palate showcases all of this and extra, beginning with a fruit word of raisin and citrus, then a soothing word of vanilla-laced milk chocolate that helps mood among the punch from the significantly extra aggressive physique. Because the end builds, the influence of the barrel comes extra into focus, pairing effectively with the cocoa powder parts and among the cinnamon notes that discover buy right here. Deftly balanced however sweeter than the VS on the end, but removed from overwhelming, the dusting of sugar leaves you prepared for one more sip, and one other, and one other… A / $225 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]
Hennessy XO Cognac
$225
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