HINE
Vintage Cognacs and US importer Anchor Distilling Company will introduce a
limited edition Grande Champagne cognac, Domaines HINE Bonneuil 2005. Bonneuil
2005 will be the first expression in a new collection of single grand cru,
single harvest cognacs, originating exclusively from HINE’s own 297 acre
estate, Domaines HINE. Each year, if the quality is up to HINE’s
standards, a careful selection will be made to create a new addition to the
collection. Only 18 casks (8,100 bottles) of Bonneuil 2005 were selected
for bottling. It will be available in the United States at a suggested
retail price of $139.99.
The
Domaines HINE Bonneuil 2005 consists solely of Ugni Blanc grapes, a
late-maturing varietal that produces a dry, delicate white wine. One of the few
houses in the Cognac region to have its own vineyard, the quality of the grapes
harvested at Domaines HINE contributes to the finesse, floral bouquet and
elegance found in HINE cognacs. The aromatic richness comes from the
exceptional quality of the soil, careful tending of the vines and precise
timing for harvesting, which are further enhanced by distillation and aging in French
oak barrels. The winter of 2004 was sunny with a few light frosts. The
flowering season progressed well until early July. Temperatures soared to 35°C,
creating dry conditions typical of hot years and triggering the onset of
ripening a week earlier than usual. The grape harvest took place on 30th
September,
a hundred days after flowering, in fine sunshine.
DOMAINES HINE BONNEUIL 2005
With its delightful pale golden color, Domaines HINE
Bonneuil 2005 offers a remarkable nose, developing elegant and subtle
fragrances of ripe grapes. It reveals aromas of gingerbread, licorice, combined
with light tangy notes supported by peppery spices, lending an oriental touch.
On the palate, Domaines HINE Bonneuil 2005 charms with a generous texture,
delightfully fruity and jammy. The lively and candid aromas are enriched with honey
and pineapple notes and a hint of clove. The very pleasing and lingering finish
rounds off the appreciation of the great qualities of this 2005 harvest.
Strength: 43% ABV, 750ml, Suggested Retail Price $139.99
