Celebrate National Cognac Day with Hermitage Cognac
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.
- Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
- Aroma: Rich and fruity with notes of dried apricots, vanilla, and a hint of oak.
- Flavour Profile: Smooth with a well-balanced mix of fruit, vanilla, and a touch of spice. Perfect for a Cognac Old Fashioned.
- ABV: 43%
- Hermitage 20 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
- Aroma: Intense and complex, featuring dried fruits, figs, and subtle floral notes.
- Flavour Profile: Full bodied with layers of dried fruit, honey, and a long, rich finish.
- ABV: 42%
- Hermitage Cognac Cacao 25
- Aroma: Luxurious notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and roasted nuts.
- Flavour Profile: Decadent with a harmonious blend of mocha, cocoa, and a touch of spice, creating a unique and indulgent experience.
- ABV: 44%
- Hermitage 1960 Grande Champagne Cognac
- Aroma: Exquisite with a bouquet of old leather, tobacco, and hints of dried fruits.
- Flavour Profile: Exceptionally smooth with deep flavours of prune, walnut, and a lingering finish of spice and oak.
- ABV: 40%
Delighted to have sold our latest bonbonne of 1882 cognac to Hedonism Wines in Mayfair and, with an asking price of £90k, it was snapped up by one of their customers within 24 hours. Presented in a traditional wicker basket, the bonbonne contains 10 litres of 
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A recent article in Trend Hunter explains how Larsen Cognac is challenging the traditional image of cognac with its new campaign. Cognac has traditionally been viewed as a niche product associated with older, affluent individuals. However, in recent years, cognac brands have worked hard to appeal to younger audiences by introducing innovative packaging and partnerships with popular culture and fashion icons. Their aim is to break down the perception that cognac is only for the elite and make it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
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