In partnership with San Francisco-based importer, Hotaling & Co., the House of HINE announced the U.S. release of HINE XO 1er Cru, a Grande Champagne blend. This new spirit is the result of a collaborative effort between veteran Cellar Master Eric Forget and Deputy Cellar Master, Paul Szersnovicz.
“For the past 25 years, I have had the honor of upholding HINE’s longstanding tradition of excellence,” said Eric Forget, HINE cellar master, in a statement. “HINE XO 1er Cru is representative of the passing down from one generation of cellar master to the next, honoring the past while celebrating the future of what is to come. This XO is a symphony of elegance and richness that showcases the pure expression of Grande Champagne while simultaneously preserving HINE’s signature fresh and vibrant style.”
Packaged in an “elegant, diamond-cut decanter designed to highlight its golden amber hue,” according to the company, HINE XO 1er Cru blends a selection of eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of 10 years, all sourced from estate vineyards in the Grande Champagne terroir.
Double distilled on the lees and aged in fine-grained, lightly toasted oak barrels, HINE XO 1er Cru features notes of dried apricots, ginger and cinnamon, followed by a layered palate of floral notes, candied orange peel and hints of honey and spice, according to the company.
“Hotaling & Co. is pleased to introduce this exciting new luxury XO expression to the U.S. market,” said Dan Leese, president and CEO of Hotaling & Co., U.S. importer of HINE Cognac. “Reflective of the quality and attention to detail that have made HINE a globally recognized name in the world of cognac, HINE XO 1er Cru is a beautifully inspired expression for collectors, connoisseurs, and those seeking a truly refined cognac experience.”
HINE XO 1er Cru (700-ml.) is available nationwide in select U.S. retailers and online through ReserveBar for a suggested retail price of $300.