Hine Cigar Reserve XO Cognac is a specially selected brandy which was created by Bernard Hine and Nicholas Freeman, the late chairman of Hunters and Frankau, the sole UK importers of Havana Cigars. Both men shared a passion for fine cigars and Cognac. This Cognac is the result of their shared vision to create the perfect brandy to accompany a fine handmade cigar.
Hine Cigar Reserve XO Cognac is a deep and rich, spicy style of Cognac, fuller than the usual house style. This is blended from 20 eaux-de-vie from each of the four areas of the Cognac region: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies and Fins Bois.
This is the only expression in the Hine catalogue to use Cognac from Fin Bois, which is known for its concentrated flavours and robust aromatic profile. Aged for over 12 years in Hine’s cellars in Jarnac before blending.
Thomas Hine & Co is one of the most prestigious Cognac Houses. It was founded by Englishman from Dorset, Thomas Hine in 1763. The house is located at 16 Quai de l’Orangerie in the town of Jarnac on the banks of the river Charente. The house was granted a royal warrant from Queen Elizabeth II in 1962, and it remains the only Cognac supplier with this honour.
Today the company is owned by French company EDV SAS. The House of Hine philosophy is that a great cognac is, above all, a great white wine. The fine and delicate house style begins with careful growing of grapes in the heart of Cognac’s most desired areas, and the judicious use of wood to enhance rather than mask the eau-de-vie’s flavours.
Nose: Aromas of tobacco leaf, crystallised fruits, honey, precious cedarwood, and sweet cinnamon with a slight hint of oak.
Palate: A smooth, balanced, and complex entry featuring zingy and fresh black pepper, rich spices, walnut, leather, and toasted brioche notes.
Finish: Very long and warm, lingering with notes of dark chocolate, toasted oak, and a punchy hit of liquorice.
What makes Hine Cigar Reserve XO specifically designed for cigars?
Unlike standard Cognacs, it was created in collaboration with Nicholas Freeman, the late chairman of Havana cigar importer Hunters & Frankau, specifically to pair well with Cuban Cigars.
It features a richer, spicier blend than usual with eaux-de-vie from Fins Bois alongside Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, and Borderies to ensure its bold profile isn’t overpowered by a good cigar.
How long is Hine Cigar Reserve XO aged?
The eaux-de-vie in this blend are aged a minimum of 12 years in French oak casks in Hine’s historic cellars in Jarnac, earning it its official XO (Extra Old) designation (by law, XO must be aged a minimum of 10 years).
Do I have to smoke a cigar to enjoy this Cognac?
Not at all. While it is made to pair with fine cigars, its complex depth, rich fruit notes, and warm oak spice make it an exceptional, full-bodied sipping XO on its own or alongside rich desserts.
Indeed, at Fareham Wine Cellar, we can 100% vouch that this is excellent to drink on its own.
Which cigars pair best with Hine Cigar Reserve XO?
Thanks to its robust aromatic backbone and spicy profile, it pairs brilliantly with medium-to-full-bodied cigars.
For a Cuban cigar, try a Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill or Montecristo No 2.
Alternatively, try it with a stronger New World cigar like the Davidoff Puro Dominicano Corona Large or Avo Expresivo Churchill.
Are There Any Other Cigar Cognacs?
Yes. Cognac Frapin also produce an XO Cognac designed to pair with cigars.
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