Wine: A spirit of adventure

The story of Hennessy’s foundation is far more exciting than the cognac firm lets on

The well-worn tale of Hennessy’s founding – Corkman Richard Hennessy leaves Ireland, becomes a French military man, founds Hennessy Cognac, then son James perfects it – is no longer enough. For this, the 250th anniversary of Hennessy Cognac, I feel that a more fascinating tale should be told.

The full story of Hennessy is one of aristocracy, smuggling, cousins marrying, unexpected death, depression, gun running, business disasters, revolutionary prowess, political string pulling, advantageous ...