Spirits brands are being created constantly in this current distilling renaissance — so it’s all the more impressive when one celebrates its 250th anniversary. Hennessy Cognac is marking the milestone with a new blend, the 250 Collector Blend. It’s a tribute from present Master Blender Yann Filioux, and it’s rare, too. Only 250 barrels aged the cognac, a blend of eaux-de-vie aged between 15 and 35 years.
The end result is a nuanced spirit with aromatic notes ranging from vegetal to spicy and an elegant, persistent finish. But because the cognac is hard to find and also very expensive, try this commemorative cocktail with Hennessy VSOP Privilège instead. It’s also a a superior cognac, a balance of strength and smoothness.
The Hennessy Royal Anniversaire
1 1/2 oz. Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège
3/4 oz. Grand Marnier
1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 oz. Moet Chandon Imperial Brut Champagne or Chandon Brut Sparkling
Orange twist garnish
Add all ingredients except the champagne to a shaker tin with ice. Shake until chilled. Strain into a coupe glass.
Top with Moet Chandon Brut Champagne or Chandon Brut Sparkling. Garnish with orange twist
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