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Category: News

The XO Definition Has Finally Been Changed

Posted / in Brandy Education, News and tagged , ,

XO Cognac DefinitionWith effect from 1 April 2018 any cognac classified as an XO must have been aged for a minimum of 10 years.  This change of XO Definition means that in the case of a blend, which many are, the youngest cognac used must now be at least a decade old.  This is a 4 year increase as previously only 6 years of ageing was sufficient for a cognac to qualify.  Regulatory body, the BNIC, comments that the change is designed to extend the quality positioning of XO cognacs and align them with market reality (some XOs are aged for 10 years or more anyway).  First announced in 2011, the industry has been given plenty of warning to mature their stocks however, an interim measure has also been put in place.   XO cognacs aged for 6, 7, 8, and 9 years and packaged by 31 March 2018 may be labelled and sold as XO until 31 March 2019.  Thereafter, all XOs must be at least 10 years old and no doubt the price will increase accordingly.

Hermitage 1968 Petite Champagne Cognac

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1968 CognacJust arrived – Hermitage 1968 Petite Champagne Cognac. The mid 1960s produced some excellent cognacs from Petite Champagne and this one is no exception.  It needs to stand for a few minutes for the aromas of hazelnuts, brioche, bananas and gooseberries to develop.  This is a lighter style cognac, exhibiting many flavours initially of roasted hazelnuts with brioche and a hint of lime.  These develop slowly with banana, blueberries and a hint of strawberries with the zest of lime influencing the tail.  Distilled 50 years ago, it is a very special treat for someone celebrating their half century in 2018.  Cognacs that have been aged for decades have some very special qualities to enjoy.

Two of the Very Best Cognacs from Hermitage

Posted / in Brandy Bottle Reviews, News, The Bottle Story and tagged

Two of the best cognacsOur Cognac Buyer has been super busy recently and these latest additions to the Hermitage range are astonishingly good!  Both are from the top cru, Grande Champagne.  They are wonderful examples of spirit that has been aged naturally, in oak casks, for decades.  Indeed they are two of the best cognacs in our portfolio.

Hermitage 1948 Grande Champagne Cognac has been in wood for more than half a century. Distilled 70 years ago it is remarkable, rich and complex and has developed a wonderful, rich rancio which lasts on the palate for a very long time.

Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac.  This is a cognac of great distinction which must not be hurried.  The many aromas and flavours need to be discovered slowly. Its intense rancio is worthy of an even older Grande Champagne cognac.

Michelle Brachet – The World of Cognac

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The World of CognacFor decades we have referred to Nicholas Faith’s book ‘Cognac’ for bits and pieces of information – his books have become the standard in the industry.  They are regarded by most professionals as invaluable guides to cognac, it’s history and the thousands of producers in the Charente region of France where the King of Spirits is made.  The world of cognac is evolving faster now than ever before. Increased sales volumes have created the need for bigger harvest yields and the means of making different cognacs. It therefore comes as no surprise that a new book on the subject has been provided by Michelle Brachet.  ‘The World of Cognac’ is hugely informative and enjoyable to read with points of historical interest as well as individual stories of some of the better-known names in the industry. It also looks at some of the industry changes that have created the modern cognac which we enjoy today.   Wonderfully illustrated, it includes pictures of key parts of cognac’s progress through the ages.  ‘The World of Cognac’ could well become the natural successor to Nick Faith’s all encompassing ‘Cognac’. Well done Michelle!

More Support for Using Tulip Glasses

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cognac glassesFor decades we have been advocating the use of tulip glasses for drinking cognac.  DB has written much on the subject including one of his monthly Technical Topics.  Now it seems other professionals in the industry are speaking out.  Well respected cognac producer, Frapin, have called for a ban on brandy balloons.  The giant glass does nothing for the spirit.  Export Director Bertrand Verduzier said “Tulip glasses are the best way to experience cognac as you get more aromas coming through and with balloons you just get alcohol”.  Michelle Brachet, cognac expert and educator, agrees suggesting the introduction of a ‘smash the snifter’ campaign.  Frapin’s call to use glasses which help recognise individual flavours in cognac may have been influenced by their relatively recent move into cognacs with age statements.  “Our vintage cognacs are a point of difference that show what we’re all about – they are very alive and different to one another” Piveteau said.  Good to see others promoting the recognition of individual cognac flavours – our 45 Year Old is a classic example.

Cognac Rebrands – Recent Announcement from the BNIC

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Cognac RebrandsCognac rebrands.  Its regulatory body, the BNIC, has just unveiled a new brand identity for the appellation which was officially recognised over a hundred years ago.  The logo depicts a rich, copper still-coloured map of the growing region.  Bordering the Atlantic ocean, the appellation is bisected by the river Charente and comprises 6 cognac crus.  The newly designed logo reminds us that the King of all Spirits is the product of one place only.  It is designed to be inspiring, like cognac itself.  It should also convey to consumers the wonderful history of the region and craftmanship of the producers.  Even the font used has historic connections.  It was created by Claude Garamount in the 16th century, when Charente wine was first distilled.  Speaking at the launch, Claire Caillaud, BNIC Director of Comms said ”[The logo] will reinforce cognac’s image as a product of guaranteed provenance and authenticity”.

New Hermitage Cognac Celebration Vintages

Posted / in Brandy Bottle Reviews, News, News from the Brandy Houses and tagged

Hermitage Cognac Celebration VintagesWe are really looking forward to 2018 as two more Hermitage celebration vintages are added to our stores. An exceptional Borderies 1958 cognac was the first to arrive and it has just been joined by a rare, Grande Champagne gem from 1938. Wonderful, single estate, vintage cognacs but particularly special for those with a 60th or 80th celebration this year.

The full range of Hermitage celebration vintages comprises:

1928, 1938, 1948, 1958, 1988, with 1968 arriving next month.

And if it’s armagnac you’re after, we have the following vintages in stock:

1918, 1928, 1938, 1948, 1958, 1968, 1978, 1988, & 1998

The Cognac Region – Winter 2018

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The CharenteFor the 3rd year running, cognac exports have increased with a 10% growth in volume and a 15% growth in value.  The US retained its position as the largest cognac market.  China has led the return to growth in the Far East.  Prosperity in Europe has also returned thanks mainly to renewed interest from Russia and the Baltics.  Naturally, this good news has led to speculation of more cognac house takeovers in the Cognac region. Some major non-cognac companies may be looking to extend their portfolio in this area as a good investment.  It is also understood that hefty price increases should be expected this year, especially amongst the older cognacs.  Beware, new price lists are imminent!

Rappers, Hip-Hop and their Cognac

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Why is it that cognac attracts so many rappers to promote its cause?  Maybe they are attracted to the meticulous craft it embodies or the respect it commands in the spirits world?  Courvoisier recently launched a new campaign starring American rapper A$AP Rocky.  Called ‘Honour Your Code’ it embodies the brand’s values of ‘dedication, vision and respect for tradition’.  “I think your code is equivalent to your standards and your morals. It’s whatever you believe in and you should always stand by it.” said A$AP Rocky.  It was a similar view that drew Jay-Z to Château de Cognac 6 years ago.  His proposition to create a new blend that would not only honour the region’s history but push the boundaries of traditional consumption resulted in the production and partial ownership of D’ussé Cognac.  So, these rap artists’ foray into the world of cognac not only helps to expose the spirit to a younger audience, they associate it with many traditional values.  More recently Jay-Z has been involved in the Hurricane Maria relief effort.  D’Ussé cognac was given away to all those donating items or money to the fund.  Now that is community spirited!