The word “brandy”, is derived from the Dutch word brandywijn meaning burnt wine. Indeed it is effectively burnt in a still leaving the water and removing the alcoholic vapour which condenses back to a liquid form as it cools. The generic term Brandy is used to describe the three great brandies of France, cognac, armagnac and calvados but is also a general description of a fruit based liquid which is distilled. Most people understand that cognacs and armagnacs are made from wines which have been fermented in tanks in preparation for distillation but calvados is also regarded as a brandy and is made from a cidre and distilled in a similar way to cognac. France has one further brandy which is distilled from the marc, being the pips, skins and lees of the grapes and known as pomace brandy and often just referred to as “Marc”. The term is also used in other countries such as Spain where brandies distilled from grapes are added to barrels effectively topping up the barrel as brandy is drawn off the bottom. This is known as the Solera System.
Cognac is often known as the King of Brandies, perhaps because it sells in far greater volumes than the other two but technically it has developed faster than the others perhaps because it has been in the right place at the right time. It is often quoted that the drink was discovered by monks in an abbey at La Rochelle. A Chevalier du Maron was said to give two barrels to the monastery around 1540 and when the monks opened one they found that the spirit was fiery and tasteless. They put the other barrel away and forgot about it for many years and when they came to open it they discovered a beautiful golden liquid which they named after the town from where it came, Cognac. Cognac is in the centre of the region known as The Charente and from those early days grapes have been grown in the region as the soil and conditions have proved to be ideal. There was always a demand for wines and farmers grew grapes since they proved to be profitable in an increasing market for alcoholic drinks, however the wines were acidic and low in alcohol and by the time they were transported along the Charente river to La Rochelle the wines often became rancid so rather than waste them they were “reduced” by distillation so that they could be sold to the traders who called at the port with furs and coals and timbers from countries like England and Ireland and copper from Holland which was used to make bigger and better stills.
By 1700 traders visiting the region from England and Ireland had recognised the values of the strong wine and by the middle of the century had established themselves as traders in the Brandywine. They employed correspondents or salesmen as we know them today who would send their orders for barrels of the strong wine which in later years would be sold in the coffee houses in fashionable London. Such names as Augier, Saul, Hennessey, and Martell all established themselves as traders in the spirits from the farmers many of whom by this time had learnt to distil the wines.
In 1874 the land was attacked by a little yellow louse known as the Phylloxera vastatrix which attacked the roots of the vines and decimated vines all over the country. Most of the vines grown in the 19th century were the Folle or Folle Blanche as we know it today but by around 1890 new American phylloxera resistant rootstock had been grafted with ugni blanc vines which today provide more than 95% of the wines used for making cognac. In 1936 the Charente and Charente Maritime was divided into six crus which has technically defined the quality of the cognacs. They are from the top, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bon Bois and Bois Ordinaire. See map below.
The qualities of cognacs made in each cru does not necessarily follow that as you go lower down the list so the quality is less than the one above since the determining factor is the chalk soil on which the grapes grow and the level of porosity through which the roots go down to find the underground streams.
Today, the grapes are picked in the autumn by machines and taken to the distilleries where they are pressed in cylindrical drums, the juice running out into vats where it is allowed to ferment for about 4 - 6 weeks into an acidic wine with a strength of about 8-10%.
The distillation and further processes are strictly controlled by the governing body called The Bureau National Interprofessionel du Cognac (BNIC). Cognacs must be double distilled in an Alembic Charentais Pot Still of not greater than 25 hectolitres, smaller ones can be employed but the final distillation strength must not be less than 67 degrees and not greater than 72. The process is slow and relies heavily on the skills of the distiller. The wines are passed into a boiler and boiled from heat generated by wood coal or gas, oil must never be used. As the wines boil the steam is collected in the head and the spirit escapes through the swans neck to a wine cooler or condenser where the vapour is returned to a liquid and poured into new oak barrels. see picture below
There are many factors that will change the taste of the cognac which are influenced during distillation. Mechanically, the size and shape of the chapiteau still head are important as is the shape and length of the col de cygne swans neck. The use of a chauffe-vin or wine heater can increase efficiency but must not be allowed to get too hot. Chemically there are also many choices including the length and temperature of distillation and whether to distil on the lees. The length and range of the first chauffe or distillation is technically more important than the second distillation or bon chauffe since it is here that most of the chemical changes take place. By and large, the longer and smaller the distillation, the more flavour will be generated although this is barely recognisable until it has matured in oak for many years.
The ageing process is singularly the most important factor in the flavour development of the finished cognac. Depending on where the vines are grown (the champagnes take longer than other cru's), natural ageing can take as long as 80 years and most cognacs will not mature to their optimum for probably 20 years or more. Indeed the reduction in alcohol to 40 degrees can take longer than the maturing process, in some cases producers may wish to sell their cognacs at a higher strength but under the rules they are not permitted to sell it at less than 40 degrees.
The water clear, freshly distilled eau de vie (water of life), is transferred to new oak barrels usually made from the oak forest of Limousin to provide a quick tannin boost. The Limousin oak trees are planted closely together to provide tall trees, the wood has a reasonably wide grain which allows greater penetration of the spirit. Barrel sizes are important since the smaller the barrel the more contact the spirit has with the sides. Brand new barrels are toasted with fire to burn off harmful tannins before the new cognacs can be added but most are only kept in the new oak for between 6 months to a year before being transferred to old oak barrels for their long ageing in damp cellars, a deliberate feature since the larger water molecule will prevent the smaller spirit molecule from entering the atmosphere. Even so, it is said that there are more than 20,000 litres of spirit in the air over cognac every year providing the term "The Angels Share".
The vast majority of cognacs sold today are sold by the big houses who blend and have to dilute their cognacs since they are unable to wait for them to mature naturally. VS cognacs need only be 2 ½ years old, VSOP 3 ½ years old and Napoleon 6 ½ years old, there is not further age requirements and XO, Hors d'Age and other special names provided by the supplier need only be the same age as Napoleon, however it is fair to say that most suppliers will age their cognacs for rather longer than the minimum requirements.
Superb 12 year old Fins Bois
| | Producer: | Chateau de Beaulon | | Product: | Chateau de Beaulon 7 y.o. | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £30.79 (£36.18 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B01.E.A0007.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | An entry level cognac from this fine house set in a large estate which includes a famous blue lagoon.. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau de Beaulon | | Product: | Chateau de Beaulon 12 y.o. VSOP | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £34.32 (£40.33 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B01.E.A0012.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Much more highly regarded than other VSOP brands and is an ideal starter cognac with a delicate complexity and wonderful balance. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau de Beaulon | | Product: | Chateau de Beaulon 20 y.o. Napoleon | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £65.40 (£76.85 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B01.E.A0020.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Similar to the 12 year old but more mature. It is well balanced and shows no aggressive qualities common in other Napoleon cognacs. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau de Beaulon | | Product: | Chateau de Beaulon Vintage 1983 | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £92.73 (£108.96 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B01.E.V1983.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Still in wood and nearly 25 years old, floral tones with hazelnut and vanilla. Cognacs from this cru tend to mature quicker than those from the Champagnes. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau de Beaulon | | Product: | Chateau de Beaulon 1975 | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £114.67 (£134.74 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B01.E.V1975.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | This fine cognac, produced in Saint-Dizant-du-Gua overlooking the Gironde is produced from a mixture of ugni blanc, folle blanche and colombard which provides the fruity peach like flavour. There are a number of soft spicy flavours with honey and vanilla. Although Ch de Beaulon is a fourth cru cognac, it’s position near the Gironde is over a particularly porous section of chalk sub strata and there has been a concerted effort to upgrade this section of Fins Bois to Petite Champagne because of the high quality of the cognacs produced. |
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Fine cognac from Petite Champagne, Bertrand produce quite dark and rich nutty and mocha style cognacs.
| | Producer: | Bertrand | | Product: | Bertrand 35 y.o. XO Special | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £120.29 (£141.34 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B04.B.A0035.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | We have often marvelled at this cognac since it has many unusual qualities, not least it's dark colour and distinctly rich mocha and nutty flavour. It is a very fine cognac and ideal for those seeking a sweeter style or possibly for the cigar smoker where richness at the back of the palate is important. |
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 | | Producer: | Bertrand | | Product: | Bertrand 25 y.o. Reserve | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £89.49 (£105.15 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B04.B.A0025.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Aromas of mocha with a slightly coffee emphasis leading to a rich mocha and walnut flavour. |
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Small 20 hectare holding in Grande Champagne
| | Producer: | Daniel Bouju | | Product: | Daniel Bouju VSOP | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £38.50 (£45.24 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B06.A.A0000.1.6d | | | | | Description: | | Very dark fiery cognacs aged in new oak. |
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| | Producer: | Daniel Bouju | | Product: | Daniel Bouju XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £100.10 (£117.62 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B06.A.A0000.2.6d | | | | | Description: | | c25 year old cognac but very dark and spicy. |
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| | Producer: | Daniel Bouju | | Product: | Daniel Bouju Family Reserve | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £205.70 (£241.70 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B06.A.A0000.3.6b | | | | | Description: | | Best of the bunch, dark and aged for a long period in new oak. |
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Russian owned cognac house
| | Producer: | Croizet | | Product: | Croizet 30 y.o. XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £85.75 (£100.76 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.C01.A.A0030.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | A lighter style cognac but with true Grande Champagne qualities of citrus fruits. The tail is particulary long with a grapefruit finish. |
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Blended cognacs from a small house
| | Producer: | Charpentier | | Product: | Charpentier XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £88.55 (£104.05 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.C06.A.A0020.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Only a few bottles of this unremarkable cognac left. It has a syrupy fruity sweetness but no great length or style. |
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Five generations of cognac families since 1863 much of which comes from the Borderies
| | Producer: | Camus | | Product: | Camus Josephine | | Cru: | Blend | | Price: | £36.19 (£42.52 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.C04.Z.A0000.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Small, tall and around 15 years old, contains sugar syrup. |
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Blended cognacs from a small house
| | Producer: | Charpentier | | Product: | Charpentier VSOP | | Cru: | Blend | | Price: | £48.75 (£57.28 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.C06.Z.A0010.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | A blend of Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne and Fins Bois. |
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Respected small negoçiant
| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor 8 y.o. VSOP | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £35.59 (£41.82 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.A.A0008.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Floral tones with a light but charming style. It is a blend of several different cognacs all of the same age. |
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| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor Legend 35 y.o. (Opera Presentation) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £149.38 (£175.52 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.A.A0035.1.6d | | | | | Description: | | Known for its wonderful Paradis with some of the oldest cognacs of great nobility, Dor is recognised in many countries. This was originally designed and blended by the late Odile Riviere. |
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| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor 40 y.o. (Presentation Decanter) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £203.28 (£238.85 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.A.A0040.1.6d | | | | | Description: | | Intense flavours from this Grande Champagne cognac which is already showing signs of a "rancio", a form of maderisation or enrichening created by the long ageing in oak. |
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| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor Hors d'Age No 7 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £153.45 (£180.30 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.A.A0040.2.6d | | | | | Description: | | A complex and wonderful cognac from the top cru with hints of orange peel, walnuts, oak, leather and spices. It is 40 years old. |
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| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor Hors d'Age No 9 (1914) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £955.90 (£1,123.18 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.A.V1914.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | A blend of 80% Grande Champagne and 20% Fins Bois, incredibly fine and rich flavour of roasted walnuts, mushrooms and an intense and rich rancio, a masterpiece. |
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| | Producer: | A.E. Dor | | Product: | A.E.Dor 1975 (50 cl) | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £85.03 (£99.91 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D01.E.V1975.1.5b | | | | | Description: | | Unusually rich and nutty with a pleasant tobacco leaf aroma, the cognac is the only vintage from this small house. |
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An old name with modern cognacs
| | Producer: | Delamain | | Product: | Delemain 25 y.o. Pale and Dry XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £70.54 (£82.88 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.D04.A.A0025.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Mushrooms, roasted walnuts, tobacco and woody tones are a feature of this cognac. The family, who came from Ireland to set up in Cognac in 1759 are one of the oldest negoçiants. |
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Same as Otard
| | Producer: | Exshaw | | Product: | Exshaw No 1 30 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £100.10 (£117.62 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.E01.A.A0030.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | One of the great names in early 20th centry cognacs. Sadly it is only a mere shadow of its original quality and is now part of Otard. |
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A master of developing great young cognacs
| | Producer: | Forgeron | | Product: | Forgeron 36 y.o. Hors d'Age | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £135.14 (£158.79 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F01.A.A0036.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | This is the truest house style that you can get. The flavours are intense and this is unusually accentuated by the higher strength. Pineapple syrup, roasted walnuts, vanilla - the complexity is so complete that it is difficult not to enthuse about this great cognac. |
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| | Producer: | Forgeron | | Product: | Forgeron 45 y.o. Ancestrale | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £259.58 (£305.01 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F01.A.A0045.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | A tiny house with narrow copper stills that extract all the flavour from the wines. This is a piece of magic and regrettably ony a few bottles remain. It has very rich and balanced Rancio with a coffee and mocha and roasted walnut flavour. |
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| | Producer: | Forgeron | | Product: | Forgeron Vintage 1974 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £96.21 (£113.05 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F01.A.V1974.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Similar to the 36 year old but slightly less aged. The intensity and fullness of flavour provides great finesse and style but also with lots of complexity. |
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Good young cognacs
| | Producer: | Fillioux | | Product: | Fillioux 8 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £31.99 (£37.59 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F03.A.A0008.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The firm has blended cognacs for Hennessey but also has some which it sells seperately. This is an excellent example of an 8 year old. |
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Like Frapin, part of the Cointreau family dynasty
| | Producer: | Fontpinot | | Product: | Fontpinot XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £83.42 (£98.02 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F04.A.A0020.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | A rare single domaine cognac from the centre of Segonzac with a remarkable story. The house is part of Frapin owned by the Cointreau family. Highly regarded XO cognac. |
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One of the last remaining quality large distillers
| | Producer: | Frapin | | Product: | Frapin Vintage 1982 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £89.98 (£105.73 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.F07.A.V1982.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | These vintages are never in great supply but always have a good quality. The flavours are traditionally GC and show citrus, nut and floral tones. |
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Wine grower and small cognac producer in Petite Champagne
| | Producer: | La Fine Goule | | Product: | La Fine Goule Vintage 1967 | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £105.93 (£124.47 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.G04.B.V1967.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | A little more matured than the 1972 but still rather an antiseptic aroma and taste. Very herbal. |
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| | Producer: | La Fine Goule | | Product: | La Fine Goule Vintage 1972 | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £90.09 (£105.86 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.G04.B.V1972.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Only a few bottles of this left, the cognac is slightly unbalanced and has a slightly medicinal taste. |
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Large negoçiant
| | Producer: | Jubert & Guerry | | Product: | Jubert and Guerry 20 y.o. | | Cru: | Fine Champagne | | Price: | £63.09 (£74.13 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.G07.C.A0020.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | These are a quite big but little heard of negoçiant. The cognacs are from the Champagnes but are blended and have a herby and nutty flavour. |
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Probably the best of the big names
| | Producer: | Hine | | Product: | Hine Vintage 1981 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £95.32 (£112.00 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.H03.A.V1982.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Dry and floral with vine cane and straw aroma. The cognac has been aged in UK cellars. |
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| | Producer: | Hine | | Product: | Hine Vintage 1987 (Early Landed) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £83.79 (£98.45 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.H03.A.V1987.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The early landed cognacs from Hine have been matured in cellars in the UK. Cognacs aged this way can be affected by the drier conditions which allow the barrels to absorb more cognac. |
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Mostly blended cognacs
| | Producer: | Larsen | | Product: | Larsen XO | | Cru: | Fine Champagne | | Price: | £108.66 (£127.68 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.L03.Z.A0015.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Attractive ceramic presentation blended cognacs of medium age. |
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Blended cognacs from a small house
| | Producer: | Maurice Lascaux | | Product: | Maurice Lascaux Grande Fine | | Cru: | Fine Champagne | | Price: | £53.42 (£62.77 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.L04.C.A0015.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The cognacs are blended and this is a 15 year old blend of several from this house. There is a toffee and vanilla taste with some oaky aromas. |
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Mostly blended cognacs
| | Producer: | Larsen | | Product: | Larsen Galleon | | Cru: | Blend | | Price: | £126.50 (£148.64 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.L03.Z.A0015.1.6d | | | | | Description: | | Young 15 y.o. blended cognac. |
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Wonderful old cognacs
| | Producer: | Menuet | | Product: | Menuet 25 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £79.70 (£93.65 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M01.A.A0025.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | One of the truly great cognac producers. The emphasis on clean wines and long initial new barrel ageing. It provides a distinctive roasted walnut and mocha taste. |
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| | Producer: | Menuet | | Product: | Menuet 50 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £324.50 (£381.29 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M01.A.A0050.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The long ageing in barrels provides great depth and provides the wonderful rancio effect much sought after. The older Menuet cognacs are the very finest examples of 20th century skills. |
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| | Producer: | Menuet | | Product: | Menuet Vintage 1947 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £369.05 (£433.63 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M01.A.V1947.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Wonderful flavours of walnut, mocha and coffee, add to this vanilla, sweet spices and a big mouthful of rancio and you start to see why those who drink this cognac would not buy anything else. |
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| | Producer: | Menuet | | Product: | Menuet Vintage 1960 (51%) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £296.78 (£348.72 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M01.A.V1960.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | This is a higher strength version of the 50 y.o with all the richness and mocha flavours that abound from this wonderful house. |
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| | Producer: | Menuet | | Product: | Menuet Vintage 1962 (42%) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £251.79 (£295.85 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M01.A.V1962.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Cognacs from this region can take 80 years to reduce to 40% alcohol. This has been reduced slightly to provide some of the benefit of the distinctive rich flavours. |
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Soft fruity cognacs from Petite Champagne
| | Producer: | Chateau Montifaud | | Product: | Chateau Montifaud 10 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £43.78 (£51.44 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M02.A.A0010.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The firm is in Petite Champagne but they have a small vineyard in Grande Champagne from where this comes. The style is the same for both crus but the aroma and flavour is of fresh apricots. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau Montifaud | | Product: | Chateau Montifaud 10 y.o. VSOP | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £34.54 (£40.58 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M02.B.A0010.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | A family run estate in Jarnac Champagne. The vines are a mixture of Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard and their distillation style creates very fruity flavours. This VSOP has a dried apricot quality. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau Montifaud | | Product: | Chateau Montifaud 1975 (Carafe) | | Cru: | Petite Champagne | | Price: | £115.77 (£136.03 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M02.B.V1975.1.6c | | | | | Description: | | A vintage version of the VSOP but with more than 30 years maturing providing an enhanced richness and depth. |
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| | Producer: | Chateau Montifaud | | Product: | Chateau Montifaud Louis Valet Heritage | | Cru: | Fine Champagne | | Price: | £150.34 (£176.65 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M02.C.A0050.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | This is a blended cognac which is from some of their oldest stock. At least 50% is from the Grande Champagne and the rest from Petite Champagne. Dried apricots and walnuts are on the nose and palate. |
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Based just outside La Rochelle. Cognacs from the Champagnes
| | Producer: | Normandin Mercier | | Product: | Normandin Mercier 35 y.o. Reserve | | Cru: | Bois Ordinaire | | Price: | £157.30 (£184.83 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M06.G.A0035.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The firm was a broker in old cognacs selling them mainly to the USA. It then started selling its own blends often at their original strength. The cognacs are quite dark with toasted oak qualities. |
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Now owned by Compagnie de Guyenne. Supplies French supermarkets
| | Producer: | Meukow | | Product: | Meukow XO | | Cru: | Blend | | Price: | £104.50 (£122.79 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.M07.Z.A0000.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The firm is owned by Compagnie Commerciale de Guyenne and owned by a former manager of Otard and supply French supermarkets. This is said to have many very old cognacs in the blend. |
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Nutty and toffee flavours from Borderies
| | Producer: | Ordonneau | | Product: | Ordonneau 20 y.o. Extra | | Cru: | Borderies | | Price: | £64.90 (£76.26 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.O02.D.A0020.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | This is a small firm in Chervres north of Cognac. They produce a characteristic Borderies nuttiness and richness with some toffee. There is a level of individuality in these cognacs. |
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| | Producer: | Ordonneau | | Product: | Ordonneau 25 y.o. Tres Vielle Reserve | | Cru: | Borderies | | Price: | £97.74 (£114.84 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.O02.D.A0025.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | A good cognac with lots of rich nutty qualities. It is a good example of what can be achieved from the smallest of the crus. |
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Oldest house in Cognac
| | Producer: | Prunier | | Product: | Prunier 50 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £254.10 (£298.57 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.P01.A.A0050.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The firms CEO is a hugely experienced blender of old cognacs. We have always maintained that this cognac is a wonderful example of a modern pre-phylloxera style. |
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| | Producer: | Prunier | | Product: | Prunier Vintage 1968 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £104.83 (£123.18 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.P01.A.V1968.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Prunier is one of the oldest houses in Cognac and has been shipping cognacs since 1700. Their style is drier than most but are a more modern example of some of the traditional skills of cognac blending. |
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| | Producer: | Prunier | | Product: | Prunier 20 y.o. | | Cru: | Fins Bois | | Price: | £66.20 (£77.79 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.P01.E.A0020.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Dry hazelnut and floral tones feature strongly in this really traditional cognac. There is an aroma of vine canes with some lemon peel. |
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Rich flavours from Grande Champagne
| | Producer: | Maison Prioulat | | Product: | Maison Prioulat 25 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £87.95 (£103.34 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.P02.A.A0025.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | Dark and quite rich. This cognac is produced in a tiny estate near Juillac-le-Coq. There are some chocolate tones and a prevailing sweetness to the cognac. |
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From Ambleville in Grande Champagne with a citrus finish
| | Producer: | Raymond Ragnaud | | Product: | Raymond Ragnaud 35 y.o. Hors d'Age | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £151.42 (£177.92 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R01.A.A0035.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The house style is very much the traditional style for the cru but the mellowness of the younger cognacs with their citrus and dry nutty aromas. These are connoisseurs cognacs of great style and balance. |
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| | Producer: | Raymond Ragnaud | | Product: | Raymond Ragnaud Tres Vielle (50%) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £324.56 (£381.36 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R01.A.A0050.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The long ageing in traditional Limoursin barrels demonstrates just how good these cognacs can be with their dry rancio qualities. |
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| | Producer: | Raymond Ragnaud | | Product: | Raymond Ragnaud Vintage 1906 (Bottle) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £436.70 (£513.12 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R01.A.V1906.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | This house is situated in the heart of Grande Champagne in the tiny village of Ambleville. The 1906 is one of the finest offerings of skilled and mellow blending. |
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| | Producer: | Raymond Ragnaud | | Product: | Raymond Ragnaud Vintage 1906 (Crystal Decanter) | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £957.00 (£1,124.48 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R01.A.V1906.1.6d | | | | | Description: | | This house is situated in the heart of Grande Champagne in the tiny village of Ambleville. The 1906 is one of the finest offerings of skilled and mellow blending. |
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| | Producer: | Raymond Ragnaud | | Product: | Raymond Ragnaud 1990 Grande Champagne | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £60.06 (£70.57 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R01.A.V1990.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | A glorious example of how good young cognacs can be from this house. It is still in wood and has a dry and citrus long finish. |
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Some excellent cognacs
| | Producer: | Roullet Fransac | | Product: | Roullet Fransac Pale and Light | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £22.11 (£25.98 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R02.A.A0005.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | This cognac was designed for mixing or cooking with. |
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| | Producer: | Roullet Fransac | | Product: | Roullet Fransac 50 y.o. | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £253.94 (£298.38 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R02.A.A0050.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The name Roullet has been around in Cognac for many years and is well known.The firm are negoçiants but do have some very appealing cognacs of which this is one. Mocha and walnuts on the palate. |
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| | Producer: | Roullet Fransac | | Product: | Roullet Fransac Vintage 1937 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £269.37 (£316.51 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R02.A.V1937.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | This is a drier cognac with some coffee and walnut and a hint of dark chocolate. It is a quite remarkable cognac with appealing tones. |
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| | Producer: | Roullet Fransac | | Product: | Roullet Fransac Vintage 1970 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £94.19 (£110.67 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.R02.A.V1970.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | One of the lighter cognacs sold by the infamous George Roullet on the banks of the Charente in Cognac. |
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Modern distiller of Grande Champagne cognacs
| | Producer: | Seguinot | | Product: | Seguinot 10 y.o. VSOP | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £32.56 (£38.26 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.S01.A.A0010.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | From the small commune near Segonzac called La Nérolle and in the very heart of the top cru. This cognac is dry with lots of floral tones and made on modern stills. |
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| | Producer: | Seguinot | | Product: | Seguinot 30 y.o. XO | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £81.58 (£95.86 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.S01.A.A0030.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Traditional ageing in this firm means that it takes many years for a truly great quality to emerge. Dry roasted walnut and citrus fruit skins on the palate. |
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Small well known supplier
| | Producer: | Ragnaud Sabourin | | Product: | Ragnaud Sabourin No 35 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £126.37 (£148.48 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.S03.A.A0035.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The family started selling cognacs about 60 years ago and are quite well know as independent sellers. The older cognacs are splendid examples of well aged Grande Champagnes and have rich woody and floral qualities. |
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| | Producer: | Ragnaud Sabourin | | Product: | Ragnaud Sabourin 45 y.o. Florilege | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £171.44 (£201.44 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.S03.A.A0045.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Perhaps the best known fine cognac from this firm whose blending shows just how good these cognacs can be. Dried citrus and walnut tastes with rancio qualities. |
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A big cellar of old cognacs
| | Producer: | Tesseron | | Product: | Tesseron Vintage 1953 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £216.59 (£254.49 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.T03.A.V1953.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The 1953 is an excellent cognac with a good rancio only found in cognacs that have aged for many years in oak. |
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| | Producer: | Tesseron | | Product: | Tesseron Vintage 1976 | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £84.24 (£98.98 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.T03.A.V1976.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Tesseron have some very old and interesting cellars which hold some consderable stocks of old cognacs. The number 76 is 1976 to get round rules in age identification. They are rich and nutty with citrus and vine cane aromas. |
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One of the oldest traditional family firms in Cognac
| | Producer: | Godet | | Product: | Godet VSOP | | Cru: | Unknown | | Price: | £33.64 (£39.53 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.G01.X.A0000.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | Blended cognacs from Fins Bois and Borderies. |
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Complex cognacs for the connoisseurs from the centre of Grande Champagne
| | Producer: | Paul Beau | | Product: | Paul Beau Hors d'Age | | Cru: | Grande Champagne | | Price: | £65.18 (£76.59 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.B03.A.A0025.1.6b | | | | | Description: | | The emphasis on ageing has worked well and this particularly fine 25 y.o.has developed a big complexity with aromas of orange peel, kumquats, guava, melon, dried nuts and much more. It's slightly higher strength of 43% enhances this cognac further. |
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Old firm founded in 1744, now part of the Berger group
| | Producer: | Gautier | | Product: | Gautier - Pinar del Rio XO Cigar | | Cru: | Blend | | Price: | £68.01 (£79.91 incl. VAT) | | Code: | C.G03.Z.A0015.1.6a | | | | | Description: | | The firm was founded around 1740 near Aigre in Fins Bois but was taken over by the Berger Group best known for its Pastis. |
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