Hine 250 Years Decanter 1953 by Andree Putman Cognac
This Hine 250 Years Decanter 1953 Cognac, presented in a beautiful crystal bottle designed by Andrée Putman, is truly a piece of Cognac history. François and Robert Hine, who ran the company in the 1950s, considered 1953 to be an exceptional vintage due to the unusual weather conditions that year – it was the driest year of the 20th century. Only 250 bottles have been created, making this a rare acquisition.
“These particularly difficult weather conditions in 1953 have given this Cognac qualities which have needed long aging”, said Eric Forget, current cellar master at Hine. “Since I have been Hine’s cellar master I have tasted every Cognac every year to monitor their aging and their potential. I can simply say that only this Cognac has always received the very highest mark of all the Cognacs laying in our cellars”.
He concludes: “this Grande Champagne Cognac needed 60 years to reach its peak. It is the most exquisite Cognac that I have ever tasted.”
The Hine 250 Years Decanter itself is made from Baccarat crystal in an understated design reminiscent of a roughly-cut diamond, while the accompanying wooden case has been created in the style of a luxury jewellery box.
The project to create this decanter goes back to 2005, when Andrée Putman came to Jarnac after being requested by Bernard Hine to create the 250th-anniversary decanter. During his visit, Putman was able to gain insight into the very heart of Hine Cognac, and the result is an exceptional bottle to reflect the history of this outstanding Cognac house.
Cognac Hine 250 is outstanding with notes of yellow fruit, acacia, honey and fig. When entering the palate, a burst of orange zest, tobacco will awake the senses. The mid-palate is underlined by opulent spicy notes, leading to a powerful, long finish.
