Hine Rare VSOP (75cl, 40%)

Hine Rare VSOP is a Fine Champagne cognac from Jarnac, blending eaux-de-vie from Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. It is made from Ugni Blanc grapes, double-distilled in copper pot stills with the fine lees retained, and bottled at 40% ABV. The house traces its origins to 1763, and Thomas Hine arrived in 1791. The blend draws roughly 60% from Grande Champagne and 40% from Petite Champagne. The nose offers jasmine, acacia, peach, apricot, vanilla spice, crème brûlée and cocoa. The palate is smooth and fruit-driven, with honey, orange zest, creamy mid-palate, hazelnut, gentle oak, pear, salted toffee and warm baking spice. The finish is long, with dried fruits, caramel, cigar tobacco and warm spice.