Hennessy berry cocktail
The Hennessy Berry Mojito. Photography: courtesy of Hennessy

“IF YOU’VE EVER seen your dad savouring Hennessy in a warm glass and wondered about the allure, you’re not alone,” says Brand Ambassador Alexander Zanarini. “But cognac wasn’t always reserved for cosy evenings by the fireplace . . . back in 1863, it was a staple ingredient in cocktails, even featuring prominently in Jerry Thomas’ legendary bartending manual, A Guide to Mixing Drinks.” 

If this piece of information has expanded your mind to the possibilities of drinking Hennessy, you’re not alone. While here at Esquire, we’re big fans of sipping it neat, it was none other than LeBron James who re-introduced us to the mixing versatility of the cognac, when he teamed up with the brand on ‘Hennessy Limited Editions by LeBron James’. Not only did the collaboration bring his signature flair to the Very Special (V.S.) and Very Superior Old Pale (V.S.O.P.), but it also introduced a twist on the ‘Henny-Rita’ cocktail, courtesy of a splash of orange juice. The result? A slam dunk only The King could pull off. 

At an Esquire dinner recently, we got talking with Zanarini, who took us on a tasting tour of rare Hennessy, about what makes the spirit so well suited to cocktails, despite its reputation as a neat sip. “Its sweet and floral profile is perfect for crafting fresh and fruity libations,” suggested Zanarini. “It’s a versatile spirit with a modern twist.” 

To try his, LeBron and Jerry Thomas’ theory out for yourself, below, Zanarini has shared three of his favourite Hennessy summer cocktail recipes. Having had the pleasure of tasting the trifecta, we can confirm: the cognac is our surprise new summer cocktail go-to. Make it yours, too.

Buy Hennessy V.S, $90 from Vintage Cellars

The Hennessy and Ginger Summer Sipper

The Hennessy and Ginger Summer Sipper. Photography: courtesy of Hennessy

Ingredients:

  • 30 ml Hennessy V.S
  • 100 ml Fever Tree Ginger Ale
  • Lime Wedge

“When the heat rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the effortless charm of a Hennessy and Ginger. The sweet, spicy notes of Hennessy V.S blend seamlessly with the crisp, zippy bite of ginger ale to create a drink that’s as refreshing as it is sophisticated. Serve it over plenty of ice, and don’t forget the final touch – a squeeze of fresh lime. It’s a simple twist that adds a burst of zest and brightness, turning an already delightful drink into the ultimate summer refresher.”

The Hennessy Berry Mojito

Ingredients: 

  • 40 ml Hennessy V.S
  • 15 ml Lime Juice
  • 15 ml Sugar syrup
  • Berries
  • Mint Leaves
  • Soda

“A fresh twist for your Saturday night, elevate your cocktail game with the Hennessy Berry Mojito, a delightful spin on a modern classic. The floral and fruity character of Hennessy V.S, born from its grape origins, adds a sophisticated complexity that pairs beautifully with juicy seasonal berries. A handful of fresh mint (perfect if you’ve got a garden stash) and a splash of soda bring a refreshing, vibrant finish. It’s the ultimate cocktail for those leisurely Saturday evenings when you want a drink as stylish as it is satisfying.”

Hennessy Iced Tea

Buy Hennessy V.S.O.P, $118 from Liquorland

Ingredients:

  • 40 ml Hennessy V.S.O.P
  • 15 ml Lemon Juice
  • 10 ml Honey syrup*
  • 120 ml Iced Tea

*Honey Syrup is 50/50 honey and water

“A regal refreshment with a summer feel. While lounging in the backyard or by the pool, the Hennessy Iced Tea is a drink that hits all the right notes. Using Hennessy V.S.O.P. – a cognac originally created for an English king – it boasts a refined and balanced profile that pairs seamlessly with the soft tannins of iced tea. Perfect for Australia’s sweltering summers, you can keep it simple by using a store-bought iced tea or go all out by brewing your own, sweetened with a touch of honey and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of brightness. Regal, refreshing, and undeniably delicious.”

Related:

Esquire Sips: how to make an unbeatable Hennessy highball

LeBron James, cognac kingpin