As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s the perfect time to enjoy something warming and exceptional. We are delighted to offer 15% off on three of our finest spirits throughout October. These hand-picked selections make for exquisite seasonal drinks and thoughtful gifts, ideal for embracing the spirit of autumn.
1. Hermitage 30 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac This extraordinary cognac, aged for 30 years, boasts elegant notes of oak, dried apricots, and a rich, nutty finish. With its refined balance and depth, it’s a true connoisseur’s drink—perfect for special autumn celebrations or as a luxurious gift for someone who appreciates the finest things in life.
2. Mosgaard Organic Pedro Ximenez Cask Whisky Matured in Pedro Ximenez casks, this organic whisky offers deep, rich layers of dried fruit, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. Its complex yet smooth character makes it a fantastic choice to sip by the fire on a cool evening or to share with friends over hearty autumn meals.
3. Delord 15 Year Old Bas Armagnac This beautifully aged Bas Armagnac delivers bold, earthy flavours of prunes, vanilla, and spices, making it an ideal autumn indulgence. Whether enjoyed neat after dinner or given as a thoughtful present, it’s sure to be a seasonal favourite.
Take advantage of thisOctober discountand enjoy these quintessential autumn drinks. Cheers to a season of rich flavours and fine spirits!
When you think of Armagnac, the image that usually comes to mind is a golden-hued brandy, aged in oak barrels and enjoyed by the fireside. However, Armagnac begins its life as a clear spirit, known as Blanche Armagnac. This unaged ‘eau-de-vie’ is a crystal-clear distillate made from white wine, using a blend of up to ten different grape varieties, most commonly Ugni Blanc and Colombard.
Blanche Armagnac, such as Blanche de Cassagnoles, is intensely aromatic, offering fresh and vibrant flavours that are not found in its aged counterparts. Upon distillation, it carries fruity and floral notes of pears, white peaches, Granny Smith apples, jasmine, and lime flower, combined with a hint of spice.
Blanche Armagnac offers a new perspective on this traditional French brandy, with its lively and youthful character. It is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully in cocktails where its delicate fruitiness and floral nuances can shine, as seen in the 18.50 recipe. For those seeking to explore Armagnac beyond the traditional oak-aged varieties, Blanche de Cassagnoles is a wonderful Armagnac for cocktails.
Created by Francesco Turrini from Milk & Honey, London, the 18.50 Cocktail perfectly showcases the versatility of Blanche de Cassagnoles Armagnac, highlighting its fresh and aromatic qualities. This delightful autumn blend combines the fruity and floral notes of white Armagnac with the rich, complex flavours of Lillet Blanc and Campari.
At Hermitage Cognac, they are immensely proud of the Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac, an exceptional creation that has been recognised with the prestigious Cognac Trophy and Gold Outstanding Award at the IWSC 2021. This cognac is a true testament to the art of ageing, offering a depth and complexity that only time can produce.
Crafted from eaux-de-vie sourced from the finest vineyards in Grande Champagne, Cognac’s Premier Cru, the Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac has spent over five decades maturing in oak casks. The result is a sublime combination of flavours and aromas that transport you to a world of refinement and elegance. As the IWSC judges eloquently described, enjoying this cognac is like “opening an old leather-bound book or antique oak armoire.” The rich, layered notes of figgy pudding, dark chocolate, and warming spices are perfectly balanced by the bitterness of orange zest, creating an unforgettable experience on the palate.
The aroma is both elegant and complex, with hints of oak, tobacco, and dried fruits. Once tasted, its flavour unfolds gracefully: dark chocolate, figs, and a subtle rancio—a hallmark of aged cognacs—complement the deep richness and satisfying dryness. At 43-44% ABV, it is supremely smooth and refined, with a finish that lingers and evolves beautifully.
This cognac is not merely a drink; it is a piece of history. The long maturation process has allowed it to develop a unique character that continues to grow in depth and finesse. The rich notes of fruit cake, sultanas, and porcini mushrooms will only intensify with time, ensuring that each glass you pour is an unparalleled experience.
If you’re seeking a truly remarkable cognac, one that captures the essence of age, tradition, and craftsmanship, the Hermitage 50Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is the ultimate choice. Perfect for collectors and connoisseurs alike, it embodies everything we stand for at Hermitage Cognac: offering cognacs of age, provenance, and unmatched quality.
As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to savour the warmth of a fine spirit. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a gathering, or simply looking to enjoy something special, our September sale offers a selection of exceptional bottles to suit every occasion.
Here’s a closer look at each of these exquisite bottles and why they make memorable gifts or a delightful addition to your collection.
Hermitage 10-Year-Old Grande Champagne Cognac
The Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is a true treasure, crafted from the heart of the Premier Cru region. Aged for ten years, this cognac reveals a rich tapestry of dried fruits, vanilla, and subtle oak, creating an elegant and smooth finish. Its refined complexity makes it an ideal gift for a 10-year anniversary, celebrating a decade of cherished memories and shared moments. Now available at the special price of £47.74 (excluding VAT) or £57.29 (including VAT), this cognac embodies sophistication and warmth. Discover more about Hermitage 10-Year-Old Grande Champagne Cognac.
Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur (Blackberry)
The Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur captures the essence of ripe blackberries, offering a luscious and vibrant flavour. This liqueur is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, whether sipped on its own, drizzled over desserts, or mixed into creative cocktails. It’s a wonderful choice for bringing a touch of indulgence to a cocktail party or simply enjoying a quiet evening with friends. Priced at £23.80 (excluding VAT) or £28.56 (including VAT) during our September sale, this liqueur is a delightful addition to any occasion. Explore the Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur.
Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac
For those celebrating a 50th birthday or another significant milestone, the Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac offers a taste of history and tradition. With its rich flavours of prunes, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness, this Armagnac provides a deep, complex tasting experience. It’s more than just a bottle; it’s a journey back to the year of its distillation, making it a truly thoughtful and memorable gift. Available at £209.95 (excluding VAT) or £251.60 (including VAT) during our sale, this Armagnac embodies the essence of timelessness. Find out more about Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac.
A Gift from the Heart
Choosing one of these bottles is more than selecting a fine spirit; it’s about sharing an experience and creating lasting memories. Whether given as a gift or enjoyed personally, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and tradition, perfect for making moments special. Visit our home page to explore these offerings and more.
The term ‘Brandy’ is used to describe a spirit distilled from a fruit. There are three great French brandies, armagnac, cognac and calvados, the largest group being cognac where there are around 700 to 800 producers spread across six crus in the region of France known as the Charente and Charente Maritime. The top cru is known as Grande Champagne, it is from here that Hermitage Cognacs are sourced.
Cognacs, once distilled, are aged in oak barrels, those from Grande Champagne mature much slower than those from any other cru, indeed, the very finest cognacs which are aged naturally may take as long as sixty or seventy years to reach their highest quality. However, more than 99% of cognacs produced in Grande Champagne are aged for a very much shorter period and are blended with other cognacs to form generic blends which require sugar and caramel to balance their fiery tones.
Paradis, A cellar from Paradise.
Whilst most cognacs produced in Grande Champagne are sold at a very young age to the major cognac houses for blending, a very small percentage of the year’s finest, is held back and stored in the family cellars, and which may be sold to friends and clients of the families who own the distillery, and sometimes the odd barrel may be stored in a smaller area of the cellar or perhaps in a separate store which is called Paradis and where it may be forgotten for several generations.
The cognac will sleep in oak casks, gradually drawing on the tannins and hemi-cellulose in the oak and slowly developing rich and complex flavours, losing its fiery nature and changing into a beautiful deep golden nectar.
Cognac producers have, over the centuries, developed a deep understanding of the cognac process. They have learnt the best type and size of cask to use, how long to keep it in the casks, the best cellars conditions to store the casks in and numerous other skills which have made the fully matured cognac, The King of all Spirits. These priceless gems of the spirit world provide a completeness of maturity and are offered for sale in large glass sealed bonbonnes, and where their perfect qualities are preserved for generations to follow.
Hermitage Cognac, the Perfect Investment
The period between around 1865 and 1940 was when the finest old cognacs were produced. The Cognacais had learnt the skills of distillation and ageing and many of the old cognacs from this period have matured sufficiently long enough to provide qualities that are superior to those both before and after this period. That’s not to say there aren’t good cognacs after the 1940’s it is just that there are very few which have matured fully in cask available. The term ‘Paradis’ applies to Hermitage Cognacs produced before 1900.
Hermitage Cognacs are based in Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire with an operational base near Segonzac in the premier cru of Cognac, Grande Champagne. It is from this base that we have been able to use our vast experience to search and find cognacs which have been stored in old cellars for decades. In many cases, barrels or bonbonnes are in hidden corners of the cellars and may have been ignored for many years. But not every cognac is good, we taste and test them for their quality. we research their history and check the quantity available before we buy them and put them into our cellars in France.
The average value of cognacs is currently appreciating at around 7 – 10% a year, depending on the barrel age and vintage, cognacs of this quality can appreciate faster. When you buy an old cognac you are buying a fully matured spirit which unlike most whiskies, which are only partially matured, are in perfect condition. Cognacs which have reached this state are kept in sealed bonbonnes and can be either stored in them or bottled according to our customers wishes.
As we embrace the summer season, Brandyclassics is delighted to present our exclusive July offers, designed to add a touch of luxury to your celebrations. Whether you’re marking a significant anniversary, a milestone birthday, or simply enjoying a refreshing summer drink, our carefully selected spirits make the perfect gifts. Plus, enjoy a special 15% discount on each of these exceptional products:
Hermitage Cognac Cigar 15 – Perfect for a 15 Year Anniversary
Celebrate a 15-year anniversary or any special occasion with the Hermitage Cognac Cigar 15. This fine cognac is known for its rich and complex flavours, pairing wonderfully with a cigar to offer an elegant and memorable experience. Its intricate notes and balanced finish make it an impressive gift that signifies both tradition and sophistication.
Montanaro Grappa di Barolo – A Lovely Summer Drink
Looking for a delightful summer drink? The Montanaro Grappa di Barolo is an excellent choice. This grappa is perfect for sipping on warm evenings, with its aromatic notes and smooth finish providing a refreshing and sophisticated touch. It’s a wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates fine spirits and is ideal for summer gatherings.
Delord Vintage 1964 Bas Armagnac – Celebrate a 60th Birthday
Mark a 60th birthday with the extraordinary Delord Vintage 1964 Bas Armagnac. This exceptional spirit, aged to perfection since 1964, offers a unique and luxurious tasting experience. Its deep, rich flavours and historical significance make it a remarkable gift for such a milestone celebration.
Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers. Celebrate in style with Brandyclassics.
Father’s Day is just around the corner on 16th June! What better way to show your appreciation than with a luxurious bottle of French brandy? Whether your dad loves Cognac, Armagnac, or Calvados, we have the perfect selection of premium spirits that make an unforgettable gift.
Aroma: Elegant and complex with notes of oak, tobacco, and dried fruits.
Flavour: Exceptionally smooth with layers of figs, dark chocolate, and a hint of rancio.
ABV: 41%
Each of these premium French brandies embodies the essence of their respective regions and offers a unique tasting experience that will surely delight any connoisseur. Make this Father’s Day extra special with a gift that shows the father or special male figure in your life just how much he means to you. Cheers to all the wonderful fathers and father figures out there!
National Cognac Day, celebrated annually on June 4th, offers an excellent opportunity to delve into the rich history and exquisite craftsmanship of this renowned French spirit. Cognac, a type of brandy that hails from the Cognac region of France, boasts a storied past and a meticulous production process that ensures its premium quality.
History of National Cognac Day
Cognac’s origins trace back to the 16th century when Dutch settlers arrived in the Cognac region to purchase wood, wine, and salt. They faced a preservation challenge when exporting wine back home, prompting them to distil the wine with eau de vie. They discovered that double distillation produced a finer, tastier product, leading to the birth of brandy.
While brandy is produced globally, only brandy from the six designated areas in the Cognac region of France can be called cognac. These regions span Charente-Maritime and Charente in Western France. The Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC) regulates the stringent laws and measures for a brandy to be labelled as cognac. Only specific grape varieties, primarily Ugni Blanc, can be used. The wine must be distilled in an ‘alambic charentais‘, a copper pot still, and then aged in French oak barrels. Longer ageing periods enhance the complexity and aroma of the cognac.
Hermitage Cognac Selections for National Cognac Day
To celebrate National Cognac Day, we recommend four exceptional Hermitage Cognac selections, each with its unique aroma, flavour profile, and characteristics.
World Cocktail Day, celebrated annually on May 13th, pays tribute to the artistry and skill involved in cocktail crafting. It acknowledges the global significance and diversity of cocktails, tracing back to the first definition of the term “cocktail” in 1806 within The Balance and Columbian Repository, a publication based in Hudson, New York. Cocktails have since become integral to social gatherings, offering a wide array of flavours and concoctions for people to enjoy and unwind. From the classic sophistication of a Martini to the tropical allure of a Piña Colada or the refreshing tang of a Mojito, cocktails provide endless opportunities for creativity and indulgence. World Cocktail Day encourages enthusiasts to explore new recipes, support local bars and mixologists, and raise a toast to the timeless art of cocktail making. So, whether you prefer your drink shaken or stirred, take a moment today to celebrate the enchantment of cocktails and the joy they bring to our lives. Here’s to World Cocktail Day!
And what better way to honour this occasion than by savouring a Cognac Old Fashioned? This refined twist on a classic cocktail combines the intricate, robust flavours of cognac with the timeless sophistication of an Old Fashioned. To concoct this delightful blend, mix 50 ml of Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac, 7.5 ml of simple syrup, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir thoroughly and strain into a chilled glass over a ice cubes. Garnish with a twist of orange peel to add a zesty touch. Sip slowly and relish the harmonious medley of flavours – it’s a cocktail experience beyond compare.
As World Whisky Day approaches on May 18th, our focus turns to Mosgaard Distillery, nestled on the southeastern coastline of the Island of Funen. Founded in 2015 by Gitte and Jes Mosgaard, this distillery is a testament to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the pursuit of flavor.
Mosgaard prides itself on crafting exceptional organic whiskys, each a reflection of the pure surroundings and rich traditions of Danish distillation. From the organic Danish Barley Malt to the pure, mineral rich water drawn from beneath the distillery, every aspect of production is meticulously curated for quality and taste.
With a commitment to sustainability at its core, Mosgaard operates with CO2-neutral energy sources and a zero waste ethos, repurposing all remnants from primary production as animal feed. This dedication to environmental stewardship ensures that each sip of Mosgaard Organic Whisky is as pure and flavourful as can be.
Utilising small 50 liter casks, Mosgaard Organic Whisky matures rapidly while preserving its rich, intense, fruity notes.
To prepare for World Whisky Day, we’re highlighting the Mosgaard Organic Whisky range we have for sale on Brandyclassics:
🌟 Mosgaard Organic Pedro Ximenez Cask Whisky: Indulge in the decadent notes of Pedro Ximenez sherry, beautifully integrated with the smooth complexity of organic whisky. (Grab 15% off this Whisky in the month of May).
