In the Heart of Cognac, Hennessy

Exploring the facilities, characteristics and classifications of the centuries-old brand

When was the last time you had cognac? We ask this because, as with many other brown spirits, cognac consumption is on the rise in America. Perhaps it was in a classic cocktail—a Sidecar or a Sazerac or even an Alexander. Maybe one was savoring it neat in a snifter. If not, that’s also understandable; information about cognac does not appear as prevalent as that …

Link About It: This Week’s Picks

Tech that reads your mood, hangover-free booze, clever advertising and more in this week's look at the web

1. Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture Though the museum was originally proposed a century ago, Washington DC’s Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture finally opened its doors this past weekend. Telling important stories about black people, issues and culture, the museum has some 36,000 artifacts on display. We’re most excited about items that represent some of the first …

HighSnobiety’s Gin Guide

“Gin” is translated from the Dutch “jenever” and sometimes takes a backseat to whisky when it comes to education and tasting. But HighSnobiety is breaking it all down for readers—from defining the spirit, to essential ingredients and elements, distilling, and all the different types. For rookies, it’s a great lesson and for experts, it’s a good way to brush up and maybe find some new …