Hennessy Recipe

Chill glass

Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail to chill the glass.

Prepare simple syrup (if needed)

If you don't have simple syrup on hand, combine equal parts granulated sugar and water (for example 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water) in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Cool before using. (Makes more than needed; store refrigerated.)

Build and shake

Add the Hennessy, simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and two dashes of Angostura bitters into a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice (about 6–8 ice cubes). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the shaker is cold to the touch and slightly frosted.

Prepare glass and strain

Discard ice or water from the chilled rocks glass. If using a large ice cube or sphere, place it in the glass. Double-strain the shaken mixture into the glass over the large ice cube (or regular ice) using a cocktail strainer and, optionally, a fine mesh strainer to remove small ice shards and pulp.

Garnish and finish

Express the oils of a lemon twist or orange peel over the surface of the drink by holding the peel skin-side down and giving it a quick twist, then rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the glass. Serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust simple syrup to taste: reduce for a drier, spirit-forward drink or increase slightly for more balance. For a warmer, spicier profile, use Hennessy VSOP; for a brighter, fruitier profile, use Hennessy VS.