Hine Early Landed (Bottled 2004) 1988

This 1988 Grande Champagne Cognac from Thomas Hine is an early-landed expression, having matured in the cellars of the now-closed Howells of Bristol since 1990, and subsequently bottled in 2004. The spirit strikes a delicate balance between floral and herbal notes, creaminess, mild rancio, and the more customary woody characteristics. The palate displays an extraordinary lightness of touch, truly highlighting the finesse achievable with the early-landed style. Soft yet enveloping, this cognac stands in a class of its own.