A Cognac may be sold only when its youngest eau-de-vie reaches a minimum of two and a half years old, as of the first day of October following the harvest of the grapes.
Only the years of storage in oak barrels count to determine its age.
Once transferred into glass, the Cognac stops maturing. It stands still.
A V.S (for Very Special), also called *** (or Three Stars) is a cognac which youngest eau-de-vie is at least two and a half years old.
A V.S.O.P ( for Very Superior Old Pale), also called Reserve, is a cognac which youngest eau-de-vie is between four and a half and six and a half years old.
A Napoleon, or X.O (for Extra Old ), also called Hors d'âge, is a cognac which youngest eau-de-vie is at least six and a half years old.
Most Cognac houses will use Cognacs much older than those required by law, allowing X.Os to reach a minimum of twenty years old, in order to reveal their very best.
Jacques Denis - XO
A rare discovery of the aromatic complexity and subtlety of an exceptional Grande Champagne.
Jacques Denis - VSOP
A rare discovery of the aromatic complexity and subtlety of an exceptional Grande Champagne.
Jacques Denis - Vieille Réserve
A rare discovery of the aromatic complexity and subtlety of an exceptional Grande Champagne.
Jacques Denis - Extra
A rare discovery of the aromatic complexity and subtlety of an exceptional Grande Champagne.
Hine -1983- Early Landed
For each exceptional year, HINE sets aside casks specifically for vintages.
The Early Landed are aged in bonded cellars near Bristol (UK) under the guard of the local authority.
In 1983, Australia won the America's cup for the first time in its history, the US having won for the last 132 years.
Hine -1981- Early Landed "Collector"
For each exceptional year, HINE sets aside casks specifically for vintages.
The Early Landed are aged in bonded cellars near Bristol (UK) under the guard of the local authority.
In 1981, Ronald Reagan succeeds Jimmy Carter, as the 40th President of the United States.
Hine -1975-
For each exceptional year, HINE sets aside casks specifically for vintages.
They are aged in 18th century cellars in Jarnac under two locks and keys - one belonging to HINE and the other kept by the Cognac authorities.
