Product Description:
Hennessy presents the NBA V.S. Limited Edition Gift Box, the original V.S. blend in a collector's piece that celebrates the roots & essence of the basketball game. Hennessy’s partnership with the NBA showcases the game-changers, the creatives, the personalities and the moments that embody the spirit of the game — on the court and off.
Hennessy Very Special (V.S) is one of the most popular cognacs in the world. Matured in new oak barrels, Hennessy V.S is bold and fragrant. Its beguiling character is uniquely Hennessy, a timeless choice with an intensity all its own. Hennessy V.S offers toasted and fruit notes, with a rich, clearly defined palate and a welcoming exuberance. Hennessy V.S expresses its vibrant and dynamic personality through unique artist partnerships and annual limited editions. Easy to enjoy, it’s a perfect cognac for high-energy occasions and sharing the moment.
The round and robust flavours of Hennessy V.S make it very versatile and ideal for any cocktail possibility, from classic recipes and sophisticated cocktail creations to easy mixed drinks.
Maker:
Maison Hennessy is a distinguished cognac producer with a rich legacy that dates back to its founding in 1765 by Richard Hennessy, an Irish officer in the service of the King of France. Over the centuries, Hennessy has evolved into an unrivaled market leader and the world's foremost premium spirits brand, with a global presence in 160 countries. Based in Cognac, France, Maison Hennessy is known for its long-standing tradition of savoir-faire, which has been instrumental in creating a wide range of exquisite cognac products. The expertise of master blenders at Hennessy has contributed to the brand's reputation for excellence and quality in the industry. In addition to its exceptional cognac offerings, Hennessy engages in artistic collaborations, offers exclusive products and cocktails. Laurent Boillot, serving as the CEO, leads the company in maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. Maison Hennessy's enduring legacy, unwavering commitment to quality and global influence have firmly established the brand as a symbol of excellence in the cognac industry. With its rich history and dedication to innovation, Hennessy continues to set the standard for exceptional cognac production and remains a celebrated figure in the world of premium spirits.
Philosophy:
The journey from grape to bottle in Hennessy cognac production is a meticulous process involving several key stages. It all starts with the careful selection of Ugni Blanc grapes from the Cognac region, known for their high acidity and low alcohol content. In fact, A spirit that bears the Cognac Protected Appellation of origin (PDO) has to comply with regulated specifications, its grapes must be grown in Cognac, and the wine made from them produced here, defined by strict borders surrounding the Charente River. Seems pedantic but you can taste the difference.
After harvest, the grapes are pressed, and the juice undergoes fermentation to become a low-alcohol wine. This wine is then distilled twice in copper stills, a crucial step that concentrates its flavours and aromas. Double distillation is required to make eaux-de-vie for cognac. In the first, a raw spirit called “brouillis” is produced. The second distillation produces a much higher alcohol content. Only the middle part, the ‘heart’, is saved. This clear, colourless liquid is called eaux-de-vie. It takes approximately 12kg of grapes to obtain 1 litre of eaux-de-vie. Pressing the grapes produces 9 litres of wine. The resulting eaux-de-vie is aged in French oak barrels, where it matures and develops complexity over time.
Hennessy's master blenders then skillfully blend eaux-de-vie of different ages and characteristics to create the desired flavour profile for each cognac expression. Once blended, the cognac is aged further to allow the flavors to harmonise before being bottled. Throughout the entire process, from grape to bottle, Hennessy maintains a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that each bottle of cognac meets their exacting standards. For two centuries now, Hennessy's tasting committee has met every day at 11am. They meticulously taste each eaux-de-vie, then select or reject it according to their strict quality standards. The ones selected will be tasted at least once a year to ensure their maturation process follows a standard and style. The result is a range of cognacs renowned for their rich flavours, complexity, and smoothness, enjoyed by connoisseurs around the world.
Taste:
Nose - Toast, Roasted Almond, Vinous
Fresh toast with roasted almond and brown sugar are followed and complemented by a second wave of more subtle vine fruit aromas.
Palate - Intense, Rich, Vanilla
Its aromatic intensity is reflected in a rich, creamy palate, which brings an added dimension of vanilla.
Finish - Rounded, Fresh, Floral
All rounded off by an exuberantly fresh and floral finish.
Caramel and spiced oak - cinnamon, nutmeg and black pepper. Faint buttery nuts and lavender. Rich caramel balanced by oaky dryness, cinnamon, nutmeg and black pepper spice, with faint prune fruit, nuts and hints of vanilla. Caramel and prune with lingering cinnamon, black pepper spice and lavender/violet blossom. This VS - the world's bestselling Cognac - is robust in style with caramel and spiced oak. It's suited to cocktails and mixed drinks. - Difford's Guide.
The Finer Details
Style - Cognac
Country - France
Region - Cognac
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 40%
