Cognac has long been associated with dimly lit lounges, crystal tumblers, and the slow, deliberate act of sipping. But if you think Hennessy is just for neat pours and after-dinner indulgence, think again.

At a recently hosted interactive mixology event in Kingston, Hennessy V.S. was the star of the evening—not in the traditional snifter but as the foundation for vibrant, refreshing, and unexpectedly playful cocktails.

Held at the Jamaica Food & Drink Kitchen, the exclusive gathering welcomed bartenders, mixologists, and industry insiders for a hands-on exploration of Hennessy’s versatility beyond the straight pour.

A spirit made for more

“This event was all about showcasing Hennessy’s infinite versatility,” said Atina Samad, business development manager at Moët Hennessy for Jamaica. “People often associate cognac with a particular way of drinking—neat or on the rocks. But when you understand the depth of its flavour, you realize how well it plays with a range of ingredients.”

Cognac, as Samad explained, is distilled from grapes rather than grains, making it a remarkably smooth and adaptable spirit. That quality lends itself beautifully to mixology, where fresh fruit, herbaceous elements, and subtle sweetness can highlight the spirit’s natural depth.

Enter Ryan Mitto, a celebrated mixologist who guided attendees through crafting three distinct Hennessy-based cocktails. The recipes ranged from the refreshingly simple Hennessy & Ginger Ale—a crisp combination of Hennessy V.S., ginger ale, and a candied ginger garnish—to a reimagined Mojito where mint and lime elevated the cognac’s citrus notes.

One of the biggest surprises of the evening? The Hennessy & Honey, a minimalistic yet indulgent mix of Hennessy V.S., honey, and fresh lemon juice—a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, highlighting the spirit’s caramel and spice undertones.

Hennessy’s Made for More campaign is more than a marketing tagline; it’s a cultural shift in how people experience cognac. The brand is investing in bartender education, mixology training, and consumer experiences that push the boundaries of how Hennessy is enjoyed.

“This is just the beginning,” Samad noted. “We want to work closely with mixologists and bartenders to create more exciting ways for people to engage with Hennessy—whether at high-energy bars, intimate dinners, or even at home.”

That mission aligns with a broader trend in the cocktail world: reinventing classic spirits for contemporary palates. While whiskey and gin have enjoyed a cocktail renaissance recently, cognac is making its resurgence—moving beyond its old-school reputation into a modern, dynamic, and mixable spirit.

A new chapter for Hennessy

As the evening wound down, guests tested their new skills, competing in a cocktail challenge to see who could mix the fastest, all while sipping on their newly minted creations. Between the clinking of glasses and the laughter of guests, it was clear—Hennessy had successfully rewritten the script on how it should be enjoyed amongst its guests.

And for those who still think cognac is only for slow sipping? “Just try it in a mojito,” Samad said with a wink.