Hine Antique XO

2013 saw the 250th anniversary of the founding of Hine Cognacs whose quality, refined through six generations, has been recognised the world over. Hine selects its eau-de-vie exclusively from the top Crus of grande and Petite Champagne in the very heart of the Cognac region. The house of Hine stands on the banks of the River Charente and, it is in its dark, ancient cellars that their unrivalled collection of cognac reserves gently age in mature oak casks under the supervision of Hine's Cellar Master, Eric Forget. Family tradition dictates that Hine cognacs are aged far longer than the minimum time required by French law. They prefer to set their own, higher standards so that their cognacs are only released when they have reached maturity.

Hine is one of the few houses to specialise in Vintage cognacs, either matured in Jarnac, or shipped to the UK at an early age and matured in cool, damp British cellars, and bottled as Early-landed Vintages. In 1962 the exceptional quality of Hine was officially recognised when the company was awarded the Royal Warrant for the supply of cognac to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the only Cognac house to have received this honour.

Hine Antique XO was originally created in 1920 by Georges Hine, grandfather of Bernard Hine, today's honorary Chairman. His personal nickname for the casks of mature vintage cognacs in Hine's ancient cellars was 'antiques'. Hine has created a new bespoke blend of over 40 cognacs exclusively from the Grande Champagne district, the finest Cru of the cognac region for this new bottle and label. The average age of the blend is 20 years.

Tasting Notes

Antique XO Premier Cru is Hine's most elegant cognac.

Nose: Spicy and peppery, fruity, and very rich, cinnamon, nutmeg, and gentle floral aroma - almost lavender.

Palate: A full and supple body with notes of perfume and spice, this is a particularly spicy cognac with zinging top notes.

Finish: A beautiful finish with fruit and nutmeg.