What is Hennessy X.O?
Hennessy X.O is a high-end cognac that has been produced by Hennessy, a French brand, since 1870. X.O stands for 'Extra Old', and represents the fact that this is a premium blend of aged eaux-de-vie, the French term for spirits made from distilling wine.
One of the unique aspects of Hennessy X.O is its ageing process. The eaux-de-vie have been aged for a minimum of 10 years, with some of the blends featuring spirits that are over 30 years old. This extended ageing process lends the cognac a deep, rich flavor, with subtle notes of oak, vanilla, and prunes, as well as hints of spice and floral aromas.
The Hennessy X.O is best served neat or on the rocks, which allows you to fully appreciate the complexity of the spirit. It's also perfect as an after-dinner drink, as it pairs well with desserts like chocolate, berry tarts, and crème brûlée.
Hennessy X.O comes in an elegant decanter adorned with a luxurious gold label, which is a symbol of the high-quality blend that lies within. The bottle's design is inspired by the medieval flasks that were used to hold spirits, and its shape is reminiscent of a grape cluster, a visual reference to the cognac's origins in the vineyards of the Cognac region in France.
Overall, Hennessy X.O is a fine cognac that has become an icon of luxury. Its complex flavors and distinguished bottle make it a symbol of sophistication and a statement of prestige for any connoisseur of fine spirits.
Frequently Asked Questions about hennessy x.o
Extra Old
XO stands for “Extra Old”: XO cognacs are made only from eaux-de-vie at least ten years old.
For over 250 years, Hennessy has been crafting one-of-a-kind cognacs in the heart of the Charente region in France. Today it is the biggest producer of Cognac and their approach to viticulture profoundly shapes the region.
Hennessy XO Cognac is made up of about 100 different eaux-de-vie distilled from Ugni Blanc grapes from the Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies and Fin Bois crus. The wines in the blend are aged up to 30 years in French Limousin oak barrels.
XO cognac is the result of outstanding craftsmanship from the harvest of the grapes of Grande and Petite Champagne to the aging in French oak casks, for at least 10 years, enabling Rémy Martin XO cognac to express all the opulence of Cognac Fine Champagne.
So what does XO mean for Cognac? The terminology stands for 'Extra Old' and describes a cognac consisting of eaux-de-vie that have been aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 10 years.
However, the cost comes with good reason. According to French law, the X.O. category of cognac requires the liquor to be aged a minimum of ten years (via Cognac Expert). Yet, the eaux-de-vie included in the blend of Hennessy X.O contains barrels that are aged for up to 30 years, per Bar and Restaurant.
In 1870, Maurice Hennessy created Hennessy X.O for his circle of friends and introduced a new style of cognac. Hennessy X.O is the Original, the emblematic icon of the Hennessy Maison.
Creating Cognac is an incredibly long and complicated process. It must be distilled twice and aged in French oak barrels for at least two years. For a Cognac to be considered as Extra Old (XO), it must have been aged for a minimum of 10 years.
So what does XO mean for Cognac? The terminology stands for 'Extra Old' and describes a cognac consisting of eaux-de-vie that have been aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 10 years.
Hennessy X.O. was created by Maurice Hennessy in 1870 and in 1872 was the first Cognac to be designated X.O. The House of Hennessy also holds the distinction of creating the first Cognac to be designated V.S.O.P. Hennessy X.O. is now produced under Hennessy's cellar master Renaud Fillioux du Gironde.
Based on 110 votes, the average rating for Hennessy XO is 8.7/10. Top reviews for Hennessy XO: ― Good taste. Smooth.
Hennessy Very Special (VS)
It derives its flavor from being distilled twice – once like any other type of cognac and then again through a special process called “crystallization premiere.” This ensures that it is at its very best when it reaches the consumer.
