Hennessy Xo Recipe

Place a large ice cube or sphere into a chilled Old Fashioned (rocks) glass. Chilling the glass in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before serving is optional but recommended for a cooler drink that melts slower.

Add 2 oz of Hennessy XO into a mixing glass or directly into the prepared rocks glass over the ice cube.

Add 0.25 oz (about 1/2 tablespoon) simple syrup to the cognac. The XO is rich and already slightly sweet — adjust or omit the syrup if you prefer no added sweetness.

Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. The bitters add subtle spice and aromatic depth to complement the cognac's fruit and oak notes.

Gently stir the mixture in the glass (or briefly in the mixing glass with a bar spoon for 10–15 seconds) to combine and slightly chill without overly diluting the drink.

Express the oils of an orange peel over the glass by holding the peel skin-side down above the drink and giving it a firm squeeze so the oils spray onto the surface. Rub the peel around the rim, then drop the peel into the glass as garnish.

Serve immediately. Sip slowly to appreciate the layered aromas and flavors of the Hennessy XO enhanced by a touch of sweetness and bitters.