Hennessy cognac cocktails
ON THE 4TH OF JUNE, THE WORLD CELEBRATED WORLD COGNAC DAY. Produced in the Cognac region of southwestern France, people admire the distinguished spirit for its complexity and traditions. The versatile blend can be enjoyed in many ways, whether in a cocktail, neat or on the rocks.
Hennessy cognac, in particular, is one of the most celebrated and sophisticated spirits in the world, having perfected the art of blending its eaux-de-vie for more than 255 years. Made from Ugni Blanc grapes, it’s twice-distilled in copper stills to create eaux-de-vie that’s then aged in oak barrels and blended according to strict rules to protect the craft as has been practised for centuries.
Some of the most iconic American cocktails, such as the Sidecar, Mint Julep and the Sazerac, are made using cognac as the primary ingredient. During the American prohibition in 1920, Hennessy’s success spread internationally, as many of the best American bartenders left the US and took cognac cocktails offshore. Today, these modern-classic cocktails are famed worldwide. Khomotso Ledwaba, Brand Manager of Hennessy South Africa, says the complexity of cognac is remarkable.
“It’s no longer reserved for special occasions and is embraced by both men and women. The market’s expanded due to its popularity. The complexity and depth of flavour in cognac makes it perfect for any occasion, while also appealing to a variety of palates. Hennessy Very Special and V.S.O.P Privilège, for example, are wonderful ingredients in cocktails because of the intensity of the flavours.
“As we continue to spend more time in the comfort of our homes, at least for now, athome consumption is on the rise, and people are spending their time understanding their favourite spirits and tastes.”
try this cocktail recipe with the girls
the hennessy orange sour ingredients:
• 45ml Hennessy Very Special cognac
• 15ml squeezed orange juice
• 20ml fresh lemon juice
• 20ml simple syrup
• Egg white (optional)
• Orange twist (garnish) recipe
• Add all ingredients except lime to a cocktail shaker with ice
• Shake and strain into a rocks glass with ice cubes
• Garnish with lime