The Charente Scene – Spring 2014

The news of a slowdown in cognac sales in the valuable Chinese markets has originated mainly from the big houses.  More than any other they have seen a substantial slowdown in the sales of younger spirits which have, in many ways, been over exploited with fancy and attractive presentations.  After all, there is a limit to what you can say about a VSOP regardless of how it is packaged and the Chinese seem to have seen it all. It would appear to the smaller, but higher quality firms, that there is VSOP fatigue and XO malaise hanging over the Charente, and they are unable to provide an explanation.  Perhaps the political situation in France has, in a way, had an impact on people’s thinking.  The effect of the weakening economy, coupled with a hot and very damp spring bringing a threat of rot and mould on the vines, is enough for any Frenchman to throw up his arms in despair!  Don’t be put off though, some of our XO cognacs still give great value for money.