Haute Event: Hennessy Introduces Paradis Impérial at NYC’s Academy Mansion

On Tuesday, Hennessy introduced the U.S. to its newest Cognac, Paradis Impérial to a handpicked crowd at the Academy Mansion in New York. Paradis Impérial boasts a subtle refinement with hints of jasmine, orange blossom and other flowery notes spiced with smoky accents. Only achievable in the rarest of Cognacs, the finish is delicate yet enduring.

Party guests were welcomed into the 5th Avenue space which borders Central Park. Upon arrival a string quartet playing Mozart and Bach entertained the crowd until the brand was ready to introduce everyone to its new product.

“Paradis Impérial is a Cognac unlike any other. It is meant for the knowledgeable consumer who is looking for an elegant blend to entice their palate,” says Rodney Williams, Senior Vice President, Hennessy. “We’re excited to finally make it available to Cognac lovers in the United States.”

Hennessy enlisted Stéphanie Balini, an award-winning French Baccarat designer, to design the Paradis Impérial bottle. The silhouette of the stunning crystalline glass decanter is the iconic Hennessy shape, with a luxurious crystal cabochon that tops the 18-carat gold and silver collar. Each bottle of Hennessy Paradis Impérial is encased in a luxury gift box and individually numbered, making it the perfect gift for Cognac aficionados.

The pedigree of Hennessy Paradis Impérial stretches back almost two centuries. In 1818, the Dowager Empress of Russia requested a special blend of very old, gold-colored eaux-de-vie of the finest quality. In response, Hennessy’s Master Blenders delivered their finest creation, a rare blend of Cognac of rare finesse. Two hundred years later, Hennessy is paying tribute to this first delivery with the release of Paradis Impérial.

“I inherited and blended superior selections of eaux-de-vie that were produced and protected for optimal ageing by previous generations of my family,” says Hennessy Head of Tasting Committee and Master Blender, Yann Fillioux. “Paradis Impérial is an exceptional offering generations in the making.”

Hennessy Paradis Impérial can be enjoyed neat. The bottle is available nationwide with an average price of $2,700.