Cognacs are not made, they are crafted. At Maison Hennessy, the expression comes to life when the Master Blender is given complete freedom of expression and creation.

Like the first brush stroke on a blank canvas, the Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection, reflects the complete freedom of expression, created to be a personal statement and foremost to break the common perceptions of cognac. Limited in time, the single-batch cognac is the result of many sets of skilled hands and minds, composed to share a moment of pleasure.

The freedom of Renaud Fillioux de Gironde – eighth generation of Hennessy Master Blenders from a family lineage that has remained unbroken for more than two centuries – when elaborating a cognac, encapsulates the spirit of true craftsmanship. One of a kind, and never to be replicated, the limited edition is a result of a selection of high-quality eaux-de-vie, singled out with great potential and set aside in the Hennessy cellars specifically for the Master Blender’s imaginative creations.

The inspiration for Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection N°4 came to Renaud Fillioux de Gironde during a brisk winter walk in the Cantal mountains, remembering a particular eau-de-vie from one of his daily tastings a few years back. The taste had stayed with him, stored away in his oenological memory waiting for the right moment.

The 2nd single batch creation of Renaud Fillioux de Gironde as the Hennessy Master Blender differentiates itself from the earlier editions with its surprising freshness yet delicate nature. Crafted with eaux-de-vie that were aged in young French oak barrels, Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection N°4 is a crisp, light amber cognac with a slightly tarnished golden robe. It is characterized by aromatic liveliness, featuring notes of fresh apricot, candied orange peel and hints of fruity spices. On the palate, there is a sense of crispiness, making it feel as if the blend crunches under the tongue.

Unlike most Hennessy cognacs, the Master Blender’s Selection limited edition is a candid single batch: it is blended only once and is never replicated. Maintaining the tradition of this remarkable cognac series, the Master Blender N°4 is bottled at 43%, a great level to bring to light each eau-de-vie’s distinct personality. It is best enjoyed neat, or over large rocks to preserve the cognac’s structure. Savor the blend with candied ginger to experience the aromatic liveliness and exuberance. Master Blender’s Selection N°4 will be revealed in early March in a limited number of stores.

HENNESSY MASTER BLENDER’S SELECTION: A UNIQUE, LIMITED EDITION BLEND

At Hennessy, cognac making is a living art that thrives on patience, passion and a unique know-how that has been cultivated for over 250 years. The fruit of generosity, Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection can only come into existence with time, the highest finest raw materials and the know-how of many skilled craftspeople. Little by little, the eaux-de-vie they produce come together in a rare and precious expression of craft.

HENNESSY MASTER BLENDER’S SELECTION N°4: A MAKER’S CULTURE

Renowned for his exploration of surreal landscapes and imaginary compositions in his drawings, French artist Kevin Lucbert has created a vivid image that captures the essence of the great outdoors that inspired Renaud Fillioux de Gironde. With detailed lines, a rich Bic™ pen blue color and a spot-on eye for detail, Kevin Lucbert captured a multi-layered story of the wilderness, incorporating symbols from the Hennessy family crest.

The attention to detail in the illustration, when examined closely, invites to discover new elements subtly positioned not to be seen at first glance. New fascinating details emerges, making it almost surrealistic, showcasing the beauty of blending at Hennessy.