Hennessy Very Special Cognac

Hennessy Very Special is a blend of eaux-de-vie from the Cognac appellation in France, bottled at 40% ABV. The "Very Special" designation is the house's entry point in the cognac age ladder. Within the VS grade, the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend has spent at least two years in oak. Cognacs at this level usually lean toward fruit and fresh wood over the deep, dried-fruit and leather character of older XO bottlings. Expect ripe orchard fruit, grape and light vanilla from the barrel, and a warming, slightly spicy finish. This is a typical profile for the category, not a measured tasting note for this bottle. Because the blend is built to be robust rather than delicate, it holds its shape when mixed. That makes it a practical choice for the classic cognac cocktails. In a Sidecar, with lemon juice and orange liqueur, it supplies enough grape-and-oak backbone to stay audible behind the citrus. A sugar-rimmed glass is optional. In a Brandy Alexander, with crème de cacao and cream, the vanilla and spice notes typical of a young cognac pair naturally with the chocolate. Cognac also works in a Sazerac in place of the usual rye. Use a chilled glass rinsed with absinthe, a sugar cube, Peychaud's bitters and a lemon peel. The result is rounder and fruitier than the rye version. You can also sip it neat. A tulip-shaped glass or a small snifter at room temperature, about 16 to 20°C, is the usual choice. Cold mutes the aroma, and a very warm glass pushes alcohol vapor ahead of the fruit. Pour a small measure, let it sit for a minute, and add a few drops of water if the spirit feels sharp. For a longer drink, a measure over a large ice cube or topped with ginger ale or tonic keeps the oak and fruit in play while softening the spirit's edge. At table, a young cognac like this pairs well with salty and nutty snacks such as roasted almonds or aged hard cheeses. Dark chocolate and baked apple desserts also suit it.