Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus produce releasing and inhibiting hormones.
Step 2: Route taken
These hormones enter a capillary bed in the median eminence and are carried by portal veins to a second capillary bed in the anterior pituitary. This link is the hypophyseal portal system.
Step 3: Why the other options fail
The hepatic portal vein serves the liver, and the venae cavae return blood to the heart. Neither links the hypothalamus with the pituitary.
Final Answer:
Hypothalamic hormones reach the pituitary through the hypophyseal portal system.
\[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{hypophyseal portal system}} \]