Scotland. Read more about Hine, its vineyards, blending process, small distilleries, huge cellars and glorious maison here. Hine Rare VSOP Cognac Single vintages have been our signature for decades. Each and every one of them is a liquid snapshot of a particular year, echoing the elaboration of fine wines and champagnes. It takes years for optimum natural conditions to make for a remarkable expression. Hinewas founded in 1763 by Englishman, Thomas Hine. Thomas travelled from Dorset to France to learn about his father’s favourite drink, Cognac. After a couple of months spent imprisoned in the Château de Jarnac – to ascertain whether he was an English spy – he was released to go about his business, make the fortunate marriage alliance with Françoise-Elisabeth (daughter of the owner of Delamain) and go on to give his name to the brand. Hine’s Ethos Gran Mariner differentiates itself from the other cognac brands because it’s more than just a cognac. In fact, due to its recipe, it’s not a cognac at all. Even though it contains cognac, it’s a liqueur because it also contains sugar and bitter orange flavours. While it comes in a wide range of expressions, its Cordon Rouge with its flavours of caramel, candied orange peels, and nutty sweetness is the most well-known by far. These grapes must come from one of six different terroirs in the Cognac region of Southwest France.

Wandering across the Paradis and Chai des Millésimes, you will discover the singularities of the Hine House, sole official cognac supplier to Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II.

Nose: Aromas of roasted nectarines, ripe apricots and succulent melon inspire the lingering first sip, while orange resin, oak and vanilla give it a mature feel. To say D’usse is a brand for the modern cognac drinker is a bit of an understatement. Founded by Jay-z and master cellar master Michel Casavecchia, it’s produced at Château du Cognac, one of the oldest cognac houses in the country. If you’re looking to try this brand, we suggest starting with D’Usse VSOP with its palate of nutty sweetness, vanilla, honey, and cinnamon sugar. Aromas include flowers, honey and lime blossom. When sipping this spirit, you'll enjoy a balanced spicy flavour that's rich on the palate. Hints of liquorice, violet, plums and fresh pear give the drink an elegant texture, while the subtle vanilla and menthol finish top the drink off perfectly. The Hine Rare VSOP was awarded gold medals in 2003 and 2007, and given 93 out of a possible 100 points by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Presentation of the Bottle Enjoy with frozen grapes and a cheese platter, or with dark chocolate to really enhance and bring out the best of its flavours, aromas and aftertaste.

Made using airen and palomino grapes, Fundador is the top Spanish grape brandy and for good reason.Records the default button state of the corresponding category & the status of CCPA. It works only in coordination with the primary cookie. This brand was championed by everyone from Napoleon Bonaparte to Busta Rhymes. A little more on the Napoleon connection: after visiting the distillery in 1811, he reportedly began dispensing this particular spirit to his troops during the Napoleonic Wars. Given the emperor’s subsequent defeat in 1815, we’re not so sure that was such a good idea. According to legend, he also requested several casks of Courvoisier as his one luxury item upon being exiled. Multiple benchmarks would follow for this beloved and wildly successful brand. I mean I shouldn’t complain; it quite clearly says hints of violet and jasmine, but it really detracts and distracts me from the palate. Not for me. While the brand itself is much younger, the Frapin family has been crafting cognac in the town of Segonzac since 1270. Twenty generations later they’re still gaining global recognition as one of the best Cognac brands. A good starting point to get to know this brand is its Frapin 1270. This single-estate cognac was made from grapes grown, distilled, and aged all at the Frapin estate. Aged in Limousin oak barrels, we love it for the floral, fruity, vanilla-centric flavour profile. Hine Rare VSOP cognac never disappoints. It’s a Fine Champagne cognac, a blend of Grande Champagne (60%) and Petite Champagne (40%). Aged 6 to 12 years.

Arriving in a bright golden straw yellow hue, this Armagnac is a great introduction to a type of brandy you might not have thought to try before. It gives a very mellow flavour with a nice smooth after taste - again, a good option if you're just getting into brandy and don't want to be put off by a taste that's too powerful and overwhelming. Shop at Courvoisier Shop at Dan Murphy’s Shop at First Choice Bisquit and Dubouché | Image: Supplied 9. Bisquit and Dubouché

Hine Rare’s Nose

Hine Rare VSOP is a blend of around twenty eaux-de-vie from Grande and Petite Champagne grapes. Their expertise ensures that the original, delicate flavour from the grapes persists through the distilling, ageing and blending process. Suave yet delicate The vast majority of the best cognac châteaux have been in the game for centuries, and Hine is certainly no exception. Since 1763, the acclaimed brand has been turning grapes into greatness by way of abundant resources and expert production techniques. Virtually everything this top cognac house produces strikes a distinctive accord, and no two releases in the Vintage Collection are exactly the same. This iconic distillery underwent renovations at the turn of the 21st century and now ranks among the most technically advanced cognac houses. Distinguishing each expression is a brilliant sense of balance and complexity, as flavours of fruit, wood, and nuts partake in a delicate dance. This edition from Remy Martin is a tribute to the mastery of La Maison Remy Martin who was recognised in 1738 by the King of France. Remy Martin is another international bestselling Cognac brand that is well recognised around the world, and this VSOP edition is no exception.

Keep up with the latest trends, best stories, and crucial updates from Man of Many direct to your inbox. Asbach has won many awards for their brandies, including the Gold prize at the World Spirit Awards for this specific brandy. For over 260 years, generations of dedicated craftsmen and women have kept a keen eye on ensuring the longevity of our independent and family-owned heritage and recognized know-how that make our Maison’s cognacs one of a kind.Founded in 1763, Hine is one of the oldest houses in the Cognac region and named after Thomas Hine of Dorset.