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The power of forests on water and climate

In the "Forest Inspiration" series, Maison Hennessy invites friends of the House who are experts in their field to highlight the essential benefits of trees for the planet and for humanity. In this first episode, meet Professor Antonio Nobre.

Hennessy x Antonio Nobre

Since its founding, Hennessy has cultivated its close relationship with forests: our cognacs are born of the encounter between French oak and eaux-de-vie. In order to preserve the many benefits of the forest, Hennessy is committed to restoring forest ecosystems through its "Forest Destination" program.

Our commitment is shared by Professor Antonio Nobre, a scientist who has dedicated his career to protecting the Amazon and primeval forests.

Research led by Antonio Nobre

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His Work to unveil the flying rivers

Professor Antonio Nobre, researcher emeritus in ecology and geosciences at the National Institute for Space Research in São Paulo, has dedicated his career to studying the interactions between forests and the atmosphere. In his work, he has revealed the existence of "flying rivers" and described the "biotic pump" phenomenon. Large forests in good condition, like primeval forests, create their own climates, generate their own rainfall and influence wind direction. As well as revealing the origin of the phenomenon, research led by Prof. Nobre has enabled us to assess its scale.

According to estimates, one tree emits up to 1,000 liters of water into the air per day. There is no forest without water, and no water without a forest.
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The biotic pump: possibilities for Hennessy in Charentes

For Hennessy, the concept of the biotic pump opens up inspiring possibilities. In a context of rapid climate change, Hennessy is committed to acting collectively with scientists to preserve the forest, water and our terroir. In the Charentes region, the volume of rainfall remains unchanged, yet the region is affected by peaks of drought and flooding.

By improving local forest ecosystems, the strengthening of the biotic pump, though limited, would benefit our vineyards and the Charente region as a whole.

  • HENNESSY V.S

    Hennessy Very Special (V.S) is one of the most popular cognacs in the world. Matured in new oak barrels, Hennessy V.S is bold and fragrant. Its beguiling character is uniquely Hennessy, a timeless choice with an intensity all its own. Hennessy V.S offers toasted and fruit notes, with a rich, clearly defined palate and a welcoming exuberance.

    Hennessy V.S expresses its vibrant and dynamic personality through unique artist partnerships and annual limited editions. Easy to enjoy, it’s a perfect cognac for high-energy occasions and sharing the moment.

    The round and robust flavours of Hennessy V.S make it very versatile and ideal for any cocktail possibility, from classic recipes and sophisticated cocktail creations to easy mixed drinks.
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  • HENNESSY V.S.O.P

    Since 1765, Maison Hennessy has perfected the art of cognac-making, a tradition perpetuated by eight generations of Master Blenders. A legacy of cultural openness lets Maison Hennessy shine around the world, wherever its celebrated cognacs are shared.

    In 1817, James Hennessy created a unique blend for the future King George IV of England. From the encounter of these two visionaries, was born the first Hennessy “Very Superior Old Pale,” know today as Hennessy V.S.O.P.

    The savoir-faire of the Maison Hennessy is fully expressed in this balanced cognac: the selection of eaux-de-vie, aging and assemblage. A cognac of remarkable consistency and vitality, Hennessy V.S.O.P conveys all of the savoir-faire of the Hennessy master blenders who have ensured the continued success of this harmonious assemblage for 200 years. 
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  • HENNESSY X.O

    In 1870, Maurice Hennessy created Hennessy X.O for his circle of friends and introduced a new style of cognac.  Hennessy X.O is the Original, the emblematic icon of the Hennessy Maison. 
    Deep and powerful, the eaux-de-vie of this Hennessy X.O cognac are aged in young barrels and marked out by their power and energy, but also by their capacity to achieve a great roundness through time.
    Our Tasting Committee has explored every facet of the blend and identified several emotions that were assimilated to an Odyssey through 7 chapters: 

    • Sweet Notes: The palate is warmly embraced by flavors of candied fruit.
    • Rising Heat: The intriguing sensation of an intense, rising heat slowly reveals the complex taste of eaux-de-vie patiently aged in oak barrels.
    • Spicy Edge: Perception of a strong spicy cognac note, tantalising the lips and palate with its distinct peppery flavor intertwined with a hint of chocolate. 
    • Flowing Flame: A wave of warmth grows, crests and then breaks. A robust presence, full and voluptuous, is felt. 
    • Chocolate Lull: There is the gradual discovery of something very familiar. It is the well-rounded flavor of a rich, dark chocolate.
    • Wood Crunches: A striking sensation is suddenly felt – the vigorous ebb and flow of oak notes interlaced with vanilla.
    • Infinite Echo: The evanescent oak notes leave a long, omnipresent finish in their wake. Seemingly endless, it echoes all of the subtleties of each taste and sensation that has preceded it.
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