Hennessy VSOP Cognac (700ml)

In 1817, the future King George IV of England asked Hennessy to supply him with a “very superior, old and pale cognac”. By the end of the 19th century, V.S.O.P, as it had become known, had firmly established its reputation among the nobility. The product of a gradual blend of over 60 eaux de vie taken from the four leading vineyards in the Cognac region, V.S.O.P is slowly matured in old barrels from which most of the tannin has been extracted. Try it with a Cohiba cigar. 40% alc./vol.

Other reviews... The hollow bouquet emits only fey scents of vines and green vegetation. The palate entry is very sweet, nearly syrupy; the midpalate is the best phase as rounded flavors of dark toffee, nougat, and maple work nicely together. Finishes sweet, sap-like, and acceptably woody. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com

The highly aromatic cognac begins with fruits, but they have moved into the dried fruit territory with raisins, apricots and dates. Floral aromas are strong as well leaning towards violets. A mulled wine aroma lingers about with the baking spices of cinnamon and clove standing out in particular. As you move into the palate, there's a tangy liveliness to the brandy with the notes from the aroma still present. There's a noticeable sweetness present, but it isn't cloying. There's just enough of a bitterness at the finish to make it interesting. This is a good step-up for beginners just getting into cognac as it isn't just all about fruit. 85 points - distiller.com