Cognac -- Hennessy VSOP -- 200 mL

Exploring Brandy: My First Experience with Hennessy VSOP

As I aimed to broaden my palate beyond whisky, I dove into the fascinating world of brandies, particularly the renowned French cognacs. With so many varieties and brands available, I was excited to start my journey. For my initial exploration, I chose a VSOP from the House of Hennessy (LVMH) for about $18 USD in a 200 mL bottle.

Initial Reaction

Upon my first taste, I found the Hennessy VSOP to be flavorful and sweet, with a pleasant nose. In terms of taste, it struck me as being on par with Johnnie Walker Black but less complex than Highland Park 12. The sweetness was reminiscent of Macallan 12, and I was surprised by the syrupy viscosity, akin to adding maple syrup to a less-than-stellar bottle of whisky. While this was unexpected, it wasn't off-putting; it just highlighted how different cognac can be from whisky.

Although I don’t see myself abandoning whisky for cognac, I appreciate how this experience enhances my understanding of both spirits. It allows me to appreciate the nuances of good blends and single malts while knowing when a cognac might be the right choice.

Second Tasting

After a few days, I revisited the Hennessy VSOP and recognized its role as an ideal after-dinner drink or digestif. The syrupy consistency continued to stand out, making it a unique experience for someone who has primarily enjoyed whiskies over the years. While I found it acceptable, I realized this sweetness and viscosity were quite different from my usual whisky encounters.

To further compare, I opened a bottle of Highland Park 12. Unsurprisingly, I still preferred whisky at this moment. There's a certain boldness and complexity in whisky that resonates more with me, while the cognac feels a bit more limited and polite, suitable for specific occasions rather than regular enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Moving forward, I plan to incorporate a bottle of cognac into my annual rotation, perhaps aiming for 11 whiskies and 1 cognac. This experience has opened my eyes to the world of brandy, and I'm excited to continue exploring its various expressions alongside my whisky favorites. Cognac may not replace my love for whisky, but it certainly adds a refreshing perspective to my tasting journey.

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