Hennessy, with a history spanning over two centuries, is the largest and most renowned Cognac house globally. Its V.S.O.P. Privilège expression strikes a harmonious balance between depth and complexity, making it an appealing choice for both sipping and cocktails. In this review, we’ll delve into the key details and tasting experience of Hennessy V.S.O.P. Privilège.
Fast Facts:
| Classification | VSOP Cognac |
|---|---|
| Company | LVMH |
| Distillery | Hennessy (Cognac, France) |
| Cask Type | French Oak |
| Still Type | Copper Alembic Charentais |
| Released | 1817 |
| Proof | 80 (40% ABV) |
| Aged | At least 4 years |
| MSRP | $60 |
Pros and Cons
Pros
| 1. Benchmark VSOP | Hennessy’s V.S.O.P. Privilège sets the standard for what a VSOP Cognac should taste like. |
|---|---|
| 2. Introduction to Cognac | It serves as an excellent introduction to the world of Cognac, enjoyed by novices and connoisseurs alike. |
Cons
| 1. Overly Sweet | While the sweetness may appeal to newcomers, experienced Cognac drinkers may find it a bit too sweet. |
|---|---|
| 2. Premium Pricing | Hennessy’s prestige comes at a price, making it more expensive compared to similar quality VSOPs. |
Tasting Notes
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | A vibrant reddish amber. The hue is enhanced with added coloring, enhancing its visual appeal. |
| Nose | Rich, sweet, and autumnal with prominent notes of apples, honey, cinnamon, and clove. A touch of dry oak balances the sweetness. |
| Palate | Understated flavors of plum, ripe grapes, and melon, followed by rich dark chocolate, caramel, and oak. The fruit takes a supportive role, while sweetness dominates. |
| Finish | Long and oaky, with leather and dark chocolate notes complementing the wood’s spiciness. |
Our Review
Hennessy, a ubiquitous name in the Cognac world, may sometimes be overlooked by serious Cognac enthusiasts, but it’s worth revisiting. With its V.S.O.P. Privilège, it continues to uphold the benchmark set back in 1817 for what a VSOP Cognac should be. It offers a rich, complex, and multidimensional experience.
However, one of its notable characteristics is its sweetness. While this may be inviting for newcomers, experienced Cognac drinkers might find it slightly syrupy. V.S.O.P. Privilège excels as a sipping Cognac, but it truly shines in cocktails like the Sidecar, Vieux Carré, or the Sazerac. Its richness and depth make it a solid and flavorful base spirit that can hold its own in a mix.
The only question that arises is whether it justifies its price tag. With a suggested retail price of $60, it ranks among the more expensive VSOPs on the market. The Hennessy name on the bottle may carry prestige and appeal for gifting purposes, especially to Cognac novices. However, for personal consumption, particularly in mixology, other VSOPs (such as Courvoisier, Martell, and D’Usse) offer a competitive value proposition and may deliver more bang for your buck.
Where to Buy Hennessy V.S.O.P. Privilège Cognac and other Cognacs
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1840 is a noteworthy addition to the Ferrand… | £50.99 | |||
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Pierre Lecat boasts a long-standing tradition of cultivating… | £54.99 | |||
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Hennessy VSOP Privilège is a well-balanced blend of over 60… | £56.00 | |||
 | Remy Martin's 1738 Accord Royal Cognac was skillfully crafted to… | £65.99 | |||
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 | 70cl / 40%
Originally crafted in 1912 by Edouard Martell, this… | £119.00 | |||
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Rich and full-bodied, yet still exceptionally smooth, this… | £120.00 | |||
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Interesting Fact
The term “VSOP” (Very Superior Old Pale) was coined in 1817 when England’s Prince Regent and future King George IV requested a “very superior old pale” Cognac from Hennessy. This request gave birth to the VSOP Cognac category. Over two centuries later, Hennessy’s V.S.O.P. remains one of the best-selling VSOP Cognacs globally.