Cognac is a spirit made from wine grapes grown in a specific region in France. It is typically made from Ugni Blanc, a variety better known by its Italian name, Trebbiano, which yields rather neutral white wines and is the perfect base for a spirit. As per cognac production requirements, the barrels are made from French Limousin oak.
XO is an age statement that originally required cognacs bearing the designation to be at least six years old, though the bar was raised to ten years in 2022. Obviously, at 30 years, the Hine barrels more than meet both minimums!
As a regular wine and spirits drinker, I adore cognac and was very much looking forward to tasting this. Cognac, especially with this much age, can offer up beautiful notes of white grapes, toasted nuts, refined vanilla spice, honey, and apples. I was especially interested to see how well balanced the nuances of the cognac play against the whiskey and its new American oak, especially at such a high ABV. Only 9,000 bottles were produced of this release, so this may be a tricky bottle to track down.
Tasting Notes: Hirsch Selected Whiskeys The Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Cognac Barrels
Vital Stats: Aged for six years in new American oak before finishing in XO cognac barrels for 18 months, 62.5% ABV, mash bill: 72% corn, 13% rye, 15% malted barley, SRP $199.99/ 750ml bottle.
Appearance: This is mahogany with a brown undertone.
Nose: At first muted, this offers up a touch of warm chocolate, wildflower honey, and molasses. There’s a suggestions of toasted brown bread. As it opens in the glass, it gives off bright citrus and floral notes that evokes Szechuan peppercorns, vanilla bean paste, maple sugar candies, and an earthy note like chopped fresh button mushrooms.
Palate: This offers notes of sweet, juicy pears and graham crackers with a savory character like a pinch of tomato paste. It has fine, lingering tannins and a fiery kick. This finishes on the palate with notes of roasted green tea, puffed rice cereal, and vanilla. Those who prefer their sipping whiskey a touch more reasonable in terms of ABV are encouraged to add a splash of water to tone it down.
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