The quality of cognacs was always a concern to Thomas Hine, who only wanted the best wines and Eaux-de-vie from his suppliers. He used to say: “Produce little, but make it perfect”. This maxim worked very well for him. When he died of pneumonia in 1822, only 47 years of age, he already was the second largest tax-payer in the district and the name Hine was known in the world for its quality.