The Cognac Country of Poitou-Charentes
One of the finest spirits in the world, Cognac dates back to the 17th Century when double distillation was first discovered. Named after the town of Cognac, the drink is now produced by over 20,000 people in the Charente department of the Poitou-Charentes region. In excess of 130 million bottles are sold around the world each year. Anyone staying in one of the many gites de France in the Charente department will find it difficult to avoid the region's best-known export but its interesting history is enough to hold the attention of even non-drinkers.
The rich soils, temperate climate and influence of the Atlantic combine to produce the distinctive taste of Cognac. The Cognac growing region of Poitou-Charentes covers 185,000 and consists of 5,500 separate vineyards. There are six separate crus in the Charente department in total: Bois Ordinaires, Fins Bois, Bons Bois, Borderies, Petite Champagne and finally, Grande-Champagne. Each cru has its own highly distinctive qualities, flavours and aromas. The production of Cognac is highly skilled and an expert Master much produce a blend of several different wines to achieve the special flavour of Cognac. These blends are aged in special casks made of oak. Each blend is named for the youngest wine in the mixture: VS is the oldest, followed by VSOP, XO and then VS.
It's possible today to take guided tours of some of the most famous Cognac houses of Charente, with Hennessy being one of the most popular and well-known. There are five Cognac Trails located in Cognac Country which allow you to meet many local producers of this famous drink. You'll have to opportunity to meet small, family-run producers, as well as larger companies. You will also get to meet local craftspeople and gain a real insight into the many processes which take place behind this world-famous spirit. A visit to the commune of Jarnac will yield some of the most famous and best-known Cognac houses, many of them offering guided tours and tasting sessions.
Even for those not particularly fond of drinking Cognac will find the history of the drink fascinating and will enjoy the scenic countryside of the Charente department. The local landscape is lush, green and picturesque, dotted with small, traditional French villages, ancient churches and historic buildings. There are particularly important Roman ruins in the town of Saintes. The town makes a great spot for a day trip for anyone staying in one of the local gites de France. With independent shops, beautiful Renaissance architecture and the opportunity to take a cruise on the Charente River, there's much more than just Cognac to Saintes.