Credits: BNIC – Aurélien Terrade
[Sponsored article] In France, the end of September is not just about the start of the new school year. It’s also the time when the grapes – the fruit from which Cognac is made – reach maturity, and are ready to be harvested. Explore Cognac shows you how the Charentes region celebrates its most important moments of the year.
Between Ancestral Skills and Modernity
After a summer during which the sun’s rays have allowed the grapes – also known as ‘cépage’ – to reach perfect ripeness, the time has come for the harvest, called ‘vendanges’ in French. This is the first stage in the incredible life cycle of Cognac.
At this time, the winegrowers take over the vineyards and pick the best bunches of grapes, which will be the guarantee of a quality Cognac. This annual event is where tradition meets modernity and precision meets experience. Although harvesting by hand has gradually been replaced by harvesting by tractor, the grape harvest remains a unique and exciting time in the Charentes region. The parade of high tractors along the vineyard roads is as impressive as it is disorientating, putting on a show for the Charentes region.
After the ‘Vendanges,’ Distillation: an Experience for the Senses
Once the grapes have been harvested and selected, it’s time for distillation, celebrated in the Charentes region during an event called ‘Ban de la distillation,’ which will take place this year on October 25 & 26. The event immerses you completely in the making of one of the region’s essential beverages.
More than just an event centered around Cognac, it’s a unique opportunity to showcase the region’s know-how and its various players in a wide range of fields. Concerts, shows, conferences, exhibitions, and tours will be on the program to delight young and old alike.
This is an ideal time to discover the ancestral skills of coopers, for example, with a visit to the Allary cooperage in Archiac. As part of this one-of-a-kind experience, you’ll discover how master craftsmen transform oak into magnificent wine barrels.
The renowned House Hennessy will also open its doors, and allow visitors to discover the secrets of the casks in which its Cognac matures. Barrel toasting, hoops, stave planning: find out everything there is to know about the ancestral art of barrel-making, and the essential role played by oak in the aging of this mythical eau-de-vie.
As the grape harvest is the highlight of the Charentes region, another House will open its doors for you to discover how its Cognac is made: Frères Moines. Starting from the Jarnac Tourist Office, you can first learn about the woodworking industry, and see a demonstration of each step of the barrel-making process. Next, explore Charente-style double distillation and the production and aging of Cognac with a professional distiller. The visit concludes with a tasting.
Autumn: an Ideal Moment to Discover the History of Cognac
Once you’ve experienced all that the ‘Ban de la distillation’ has to offer, Explore Cognac invites you to immerse yourself in the captivating history of Cognac, the spearhead of the region. In the heart of autumn, try a visit to the Maison Frapin – which boasts 750 years of history – and its museum, as well as the maison’s great stills. In addition to delicious tastings, come and discover the autumnal charm of the Charentes.
Another centuries-old house, Explore Cognac recommends a visit to Braastad – founded in 1875. Explore the authenticity of a family-run, independent house whose winemaking secrets have been passed down for 6 generations. Immerse yourself in the technical know-how of Cognac making through the different stages of production: history, know-how, distillation, and finally a plunge into the cellars to learn about the art of aging and blending.
To get the most out of your visit, treat yourself to a night’s rest in one of the Cognac region’s most magical accommodations. In the morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the foot of the alembics after a night at the Chai des Roussoirs. It’s also a great opportunity to spend time with the winegrowers and discover even more about the world of Cognac.
Autumn is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy a memorable and picturesque oenological experience in Charentes. To find out about all the Cognac-related activities available, visit the Explore Cognac website.
—
Sponsored articles do not belong to the editorial team at Frenchly. They are provided or written at the request of the advertiser, who determines the content.
