Picture this: a group of about 10 people or so convene almost every day at 11 in the morning in a cellar whose wall panels, floors and ceiling have all deeply absorbed the rich aroma of the fine drink it has produced within in its very corners.
The atmosphere is almost ceremonial, especially when you learn that this daily ritual has been passed down from grandfather, to father to son for decades. Ready with their glasses, they take a sip of this drink whose translucency makes it appear like liquified gemstones and amber, and they check for its signature characteristics: peppery and masculine with the spicy warmth of cloves and old leather, voluptuous notes of vanilla and cinnamon leaving hints of crystalized fruit as it fades on the palate.
The drink of liquid gold was a masterpiece, a total work of art.
Maurice Hennessy, great grandson of the founder of the House of Hennessy, first developed the special blend as a treat for friends. Soon enough, its popularity grew and news of the drink’s unique blend spread far and wide. Wanting it to reach a wider audience without compromising quality, Maurice ensured a process that would protect the recipe for years to come.
“Hennessy XO,†he named it, standing for extra old quality – a quality that has remained unchanged for seven generations and would separate it from competition.
Awaken the senses and open your palate of appreciation through the golden blend of cognac that has made Hennessy iconic.
Last March, we were invited to share Hennessy XO’s success and its rich heritage and history in intimate five course appreciation dinner at the CAV Wineshop – Café hosted by Angel Jacob and graced by Hennessy’s Ambassadeur de la Maison Fabien Levieux.
“What is truly impressive about Hennessy X.O. is that it has remained unchanged, and reflects the perfect culmination of history of the brand. The original X.O. blend, first created over a hundred years ago, is the very same composition we enjoy now. It’s an original, and it’s what has made it uniquely different,†shares Fabien. “The notion of elegance is definitely important to Hennessy’s success.”
Because of its complex flavors and undertones, Hennessy X.O. can be paired with an array of dishes, says Fabien. There are no rules or limits when it comes to enjoying Hennessy X.O. “The world is yours. If it works, it works. The truth lies in the palate,†he adds.
Discover the rich history of Hennessy as savoured through its iconic blend. Hennessy X.O. is a toast to heritage and an ode to excellence.
(Hennessy’s Ambassadeur de la Maison Fabien Levieux)
(Angel Jacob)
(Apples Aberin)
(Lauro and Grace Baja)
(Chef Bruce Lim and Rovilson Fernandez)
(Hennessy Brand Manager Carlo Bautista, Rima Ostwani, Dong Ronquillo and Mic Coson)
(Dong Ronquillo, Jerika Ejercito, Princess Violago and CJ Jaravata)
(Jello Salva, Robby Carmona, Elbert Cuenca and Rafa Alunan)
(Off to a good start with pepper seared foie gras to begin dinner)
(Perfect pairing: Grilled Boston lobster tail and salad with dressing on the side to enjoy with a glass of classic Hennessy XO)
(Bittersweet endings with molted Balrhona Chocolate Cake)
