H by HINE VSOP Cognac

Smell bright tone with notes of apricot and floral. Taste of apricot and vanilla, with little spice, not so complex, and the aftertaste is only moderate, but easy to drink by all means. Not wow much for this one but considering the price, which is the cheapest VSOP I can find (in my area), it's good in its class.

Solid brandy… designed for cocktails, agreed best use. Can be drunk straight though and still be decent enough.

I guess it's okay, but it's a huge disappointment compared to Hine VSOP

There are three cognac's that I always keep around my bar and that's this, Pierre Ferrand Ambre and Pierre Ferrand 1840. The H by Hine VSOP is probably the one I turn to the most when I'm making cocktails, unless the drink is calling for a higher proof cognac (in which case I go with Pierre Ferrand 1840). I believe the 1840 is my favorite of the three, but it's pretty close either way. For the value though, the H by Hine VSOP is probably the best bang for your buck, assuming you can get it for $35-40. The nose is definitely fruity, with apples, orange peel and pears. The oak and vanilla, which is also present on the nose, hits you with the first sip. Neither is overpowering and it quickly gives way to leather and green grapes. The finish is not that long but has little burn and has a nice sweetness to it. H by Hine VSOP will not blow you away but it's very solid. It kind of reminds me of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, easy to like but maybe not all that complex. The real value comes with its versatility, as any cocktail that calls for cognac, you can pretty much guarantee that this can handle it. At $35, it's a steal and while I would probably rate this a 3 if you were to drink this neat, it's multiple uses and value give it a bump up to a 3.5.

An opportune moment arises for some time for a tasting. I picked up a bottle of H/Hine for Thanksgiving and have been sipping some here and there. Tonight finds time to sip and contemplate this pour (on the anniversary of John Lennon’ unfortunate and untimely passing - big Beatles fan) An initial nosing reveals touches of Raisin Bran cereal dusted with ground cinnamon. As it opens, caramel, apricots and white grapes fruitiness coupled with honeysuckle and lemon zest. A lovely fruity and floral nose. The mouthfeel is thin and watery. Surprising for a rich nose. Wood, cinnamon and white pepper spices keep the palate spry; a effervescent sensation. The sweet fruitiness works it’s way forward with that of apricots, apples with a touch of confectionery sugar. All this is delicate and light. But the flavors all seem to blend well. The finish with medium to short in length. That effervescent sensation carries through. Lemon zest, white pepper with spearmint leave the palate crisp and fresh. An easy sipping cognac. It’s summery light and fruity. I could see this mixing with cloud soda for that summer, poolside refresher, like White Claw (H-Claw?). My exposure to Cognac is small and looking to seek more experiences. This is quite acceptable and will not burn your wallet. [84/100][$57][Tasted: 12/8/22]

Still getting used to cognac. Smooth, but warm, feel the alcohol a bit. Fruity and sweet.