The Hermitage Trilogy collection, consisting of Cigar 15, Café 20, and Cacao 25 Grande Champagne cognacs, continues to offer a distinctive tasting experience for true connoisseurs. Each cognac in this trio is aged without the addition of sugar or caramel, maintaining the purity and complexity of the Grande Champagne region. The flavours reflect the elegance and refinement for which Hermitage Cognac is known, making these bottles excellent choices for gifts or personal indulgence.
Hermitage Cigar 15 is the youngest of the collection, offering an intriguing mix of tobacco, almond, and nutmeg aromas. On the palate, drier notes emerge—forest floor, walnut, saffron, and cocoa—leading to a long finish of kumquat. With an ABV of 41%, it pairs beautifully with cigars and is an ideal gift for those who appreciate complex, earthy flavours.
Hermitage Café 20, aged for over 20 years, is rich and robust. Mocha, roasted walnut, and brittle toffee flavours dominate, with a hint of citrus to finish. At 42% ABV, it is a refined choice for pairing with strong coffee, reminiscent of the café culture of the 18th and 19th centuries. It is a perfect gift for those who value tradition and rich, dark flavours.
Hermitage Cacao 25 is the oldest of the three and offers an indulgent experience. Aromas of dark chocolate are complemented by wild cherries, bay leaves, ginger, and honey, finishing with orange marmalade. Its 43% ABV and complex flavour profile make it an ideal after-dinner cognac, perfectly suited as a gift for those who enjoy rich, layered spirits.
The Hermitage Trilogy captures the essence of Grande Champagne in a sophisticated way, offering three distinctive cognacs that are sure to impress. Whether enjoyed individually or as part of a collection, each bottle in this range speaks to a different palate, offering a unique gift option for any cognac enthusiast.
National Brandied Fruit Day is coming up on 20 October and it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in rich, spiced flavours that pair beautifully with Cognac. Brandied fruits are typically soaked in brandy, creating a decadent infusion of sweetness and warmth, often used in traditional recipes like fruit cake. This year, why not elevate your celebration with the Hermitage 10-Year-Old Grande Champagne Cognac?
Its complex layers of dried fruit, spices, and floral notes complement the richness of brandied fruit cake, making it the ideal pairing or addition to your recipe.
The Hermitage 10-Year-Old Cognac is aged in fine oak barrels, giving it a smooth, rounded finish that balances the sweetness of the cake while enhancing its flavours. With notes of vanilla, apricot, and a touch of honey, this Cognac pairs perfectly with the dried fruits and spices in a brandied fruit cake, bringing out the best in each bite.
Recipe for Brandied Fruit Cake with Hermitage 10 Year Old Cognac
150ml Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
200g unsalted butter
200g dark brown sugar
4 large eggs
250g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
100g chopped nuts (optional)
Method:
Soak the fruits: In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with 100ml of the Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Cover and leave to soak overnight, allowing the fruits to absorb the Cognac’s rich flavours.
Prepare the cake: Preheat your oven to 150°C (fan 130°C). Grease and line a deep 20cm cake tin. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Add dry ingredients: Sift in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fold in gently until well combined. Stir in the soaked fruits, zest, and nuts (if using).
Bake: Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 2-2.5 hours or until a skewer comes out clean.
Finish with Cognac: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly. Using a skewer, pierce the top of the cake and drizzle with the remaining 50ml of Hermitage 10 Year Old Cognac for an extra layer of indulgence.
Serve this delicious brandied fruit cake with a glass of Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac to enhance the warming, spiced notes in both the cake and the spirit.
Enjoy the perfect pairing for National Brandied Fruit Day, and make your dessert experience truly luxurious with the finest Cognac.
Hermitage Paradis Cognac offers a rare glimpse into the artistry and heritage of one of the finest spirits ever created. Produced from the most treasured reserves, often stored for decades, Paradis refers to the oldest and most prestigious cognac in a house’s cellar. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, Hermitage Paradis represents the pinnacle of Grande Champagne Cognac production, boasting unparalleled quality, depth of flavour, and historical significance.
What Makes a Paradis Cognac?
Paradis Cognacs are typically drawn from the ‘bonbonnes’, glass demijohns where the oldest and most precious eaux-de-vie are carefully preserved. These spirits, often aged far beyond typical bottlings, retain a purity and concentration of flavour that is unrivalled. At Hermitage Cognac, the cognac used for Paradis bottlings comes from Grande Champagne, the Premier Cru of the Cognac region, renowned for producing cognacs with exceptional aging potential. Here, the limestone-rich soils impart a unique minerality that enhances the complexity of the eaux-de-vie over time.
Hermitage Paradis Cognacs are the embodiment of traditional craftsmanship, meticulously distilled in small copper stills known as alembics, and aged in the finest French oak barrels. Over the decades, these cognacs develop the famed “rancio” characteristic—a deeply savoury, nutty flavour unique to well-aged spirits. This complexity, coupled with the natural concentration of fruit and spice, makes Hermitage Paradis a connoisseur’s dream.
A Symphony of Flavours
Tasting Hermitage Paradis is an extraordinary experience, where layers of flavour reveal themselves slowly, evolving over time in the glass. On the nose, expect aromas of dried fruits—figs, apricots, and prunes—mingled with subtle notes of cigar box, antique wood, and vanilla. The palate offers a sumptuous richness, with honeyed fruits, nuts, spices, and a delicate touch of oak. The finish is astonishingly long, with echoes of orange peel, dark chocolate, and the prized rancio.
This cognac’s depth and complexity come from decades spent ageing in the perfect environment. Kept in damp, underground cellars, the spirit’s gradual interaction with the wood results in a balance of strength and finesse that few spirits can match.
A Collector’s Dream
With its rarity, exceptional age, and impeccable provenance, Hermitage Paradis is highly sought after by collectors. As with all Paradis cognacs, its scarcity adds to its value, making it not just a drink but an investment in history. Each bottle is a testament to the dedication and expertise of generations of cellar masters, passed down through the centuries.
For those who appreciate the finest things in life, Hermitage Paradis Cognacs’ offers a journey through time—a chance to taste the culmination of years of patient artistry. Whether enjoyed as an extraordinary gift, personal indulgence or investment purposes, this is a cognac to be savoured, admired, and revered.
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s the perfect time to enjoy something warming and exceptional. We are delighted to offer 15% off on three of our finest spirits throughout October. These hand-picked selections make for exquisite seasonal drinks and thoughtful gifts, ideal for embracing the spirit of autumn.
1. Hermitage 30 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac This extraordinary cognac, aged for 30 years, boasts elegant notes of oak, dried apricots, and a rich, nutty finish. With its refined balance and depth, it’s a true connoisseur’s drink—perfect for special autumn celebrations or as a luxurious gift for someone who appreciates the finest things in life.
2. Mosgaard Organic Pedro Ximenez Cask Whisky Matured in Pedro Ximenez casks, this organic whisky offers deep, rich layers of dried fruit, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. Its complex yet smooth character makes it a fantastic choice to sip by the fire on a cool evening or to share with friends over hearty autumn meals.
3. Delord 15 Year Old Bas Armagnac This beautifully aged Bas Armagnac delivers bold, earthy flavours of prunes, vanilla, and spices, making it an ideal autumn indulgence. Whether enjoyed neat after dinner or given as a thoughtful present, it’s sure to be a seasonal favourite.
Take advantage of thisOctober discountand enjoy these quintessential autumn drinks. Cheers to a season of rich flavours and fine spirits!
When you think of Armagnac, the image that usually comes to mind is a golden-hued brandy, aged in oak barrels and enjoyed by the fireside. However, Armagnac begins its life as a clear spirit, known as Blanche Armagnac. This unaged ‘eau-de-vie’ is a crystal-clear distillate made from white wine, using a blend of up to ten different grape varieties, most commonly Ugni Blanc and Colombard.
Blanche Armagnac, such as Blanche de Cassagnoles, is intensely aromatic, offering fresh and vibrant flavours that are not found in its aged counterparts. Upon distillation, it carries fruity and floral notes of pears, white peaches, Granny Smith apples, jasmine, and lime flower, combined with a hint of spice.
Blanche Armagnac offers a new perspective on this traditional French brandy, with its lively and youthful character. It is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully in cocktails where its delicate fruitiness and floral nuances can shine, as seen in the 18.50 recipe. For those seeking to explore Armagnac beyond the traditional oak-aged varieties, Blanche de Cassagnoles is a wonderful Armagnac for cocktails.
Created by Francesco Turrini from Milk & Honey, London, the 18.50 Cocktail perfectly showcases the versatility of Blanche de Cassagnoles Armagnac, highlighting its fresh and aromatic qualities. This delightful autumn blend combines the fruity and floral notes of white Armagnac with the rich, complex flavours of Lillet Blanc and Campari.
At Hermitage Cognac, they are immensely proud of the Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac, an exceptional creation that has been recognised with the prestigious Cognac Trophy and Gold Outstanding Award at the IWSC 2021. This cognac is a true testament to the art of ageing, offering a depth and complexity that only time can produce.
Crafted from eaux-de-vie sourced from the finest vineyards in Grande Champagne, Cognac’s Premier Cru, the Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac has spent over five decades maturing in oak casks. The result is a sublime combination of flavours and aromas that transport you to a world of refinement and elegance. As the IWSC judges eloquently described, enjoying this cognac is like “opening an old leather-bound book or antique oak armoire.” The rich, layered notes of figgy pudding, dark chocolate, and warming spices are perfectly balanced by the bitterness of orange zest, creating an unforgettable experience on the palate.
The aroma is both elegant and complex, with hints of oak, tobacco, and dried fruits. Once tasted, its flavour unfolds gracefully: dark chocolate, figs, and a subtle rancio—a hallmark of aged cognacs—complement the deep richness and satisfying dryness. At 43-44% ABV, it is supremely smooth and refined, with a finish that lingers and evolves beautifully.
This cognac is not merely a drink; it is a piece of history. The long maturation process has allowed it to develop a unique character that continues to grow in depth and finesse. The rich notes of fruit cake, sultanas, and porcini mushrooms will only intensify with time, ensuring that each glass you pour is an unparalleled experience.
If you’re seeking a truly remarkable cognac, one that captures the essence of age, tradition, and craftsmanship, the Hermitage 50Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is the ultimate choice. Perfect for collectors and connoisseurs alike, it embodies everything we stand for at Hermitage Cognac: offering cognacs of age, provenance, and unmatched quality.
As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to savour the warmth of a fine spirit. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a gathering, or simply looking to enjoy something special, our September sale offers a selection of exceptional bottles to suit every occasion.
Here’s a closer look at each of these exquisite bottles and why they make memorable gifts or a delightful addition to your collection.
Hermitage 10-Year-Old Grande Champagne Cognac
The Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is a true treasure, crafted from the heart of the Premier Cru region. Aged for ten years, this cognac reveals a rich tapestry of dried fruits, vanilla, and subtle oak, creating an elegant and smooth finish. Its refined complexity makes it an ideal gift for a 10-year anniversary, celebrating a decade of cherished memories and shared moments. Now available at the special price of £47.74 (excluding VAT) or £57.29 (including VAT), this cognac embodies sophistication and warmth. Discover more about Hermitage 10-Year-Old Grande Champagne Cognac.
Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur (Blackberry)
The Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur captures the essence of ripe blackberries, offering a luscious and vibrant flavour. This liqueur is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, whether sipped on its own, drizzled over desserts, or mixed into creative cocktails. It’s a wonderful choice for bringing a touch of indulgence to a cocktail party or simply enjoying a quiet evening with friends. Priced at £23.80 (excluding VAT) or £28.56 (including VAT) during our September sale, this liqueur is a delightful addition to any occasion. Explore the Nusbaumer Crème de Mures Liqueur.
Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac
For those celebrating a 50th birthday or another significant milestone, the Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac offers a taste of history and tradition. With its rich flavours of prunes, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness, this Armagnac provides a deep, complex tasting experience. It’s more than just a bottle; it’s a journey back to the year of its distillation, making it a truly thoughtful and memorable gift. Available at £209.95 (excluding VAT) or £251.60 (including VAT) during our sale, this Armagnac embodies the essence of timelessness. Find out more about Delord 1974 Bas Armagnac.
A Gift from the Heart
Choosing one of these bottles is more than selecting a fine spirit; it’s about sharing an experience and creating lasting memories. Whether given as a gift or enjoyed personally, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and tradition, perfect for making moments special. Visit our home page to explore these offerings and more.
The term ‘Brandy’ is used to describe a spirit distilled from a fruit. There are three great French brandies, armagnac, cognac and calvados, the largest group being cognac where there are around 700 to 800 producers spread across six crus in the region of France known as the Charente and Charente Maritime. The top cru is known as Grande Champagne, it is from here that Hermitage Cognacs are sourced.
Cognacs, once distilled, are aged in oak barrels, those from Grande Champagne mature much slower than those from any other cru, indeed, the very finest cognacs which are aged naturally may take as long as sixty or seventy years to reach their highest quality. However, more than 99% of cognacs produced in Grande Champagne are aged for a very much shorter period and are blended with other cognacs to form generic blends which require sugar and caramel to balance their fiery tones.
Paradis, A cellar from Paradise.
Whilst most cognacs produced in Grande Champagne are sold at a very young age to the major cognac houses for blending, a very small percentage of the year’s finest, is held back and stored in the family cellars, and which may be sold to friends and clients of the families who own the distillery, and sometimes the odd barrel may be stored in a smaller area of the cellar or perhaps in a separate store which is called Paradis and where it may be forgotten for several generations.
The cognac will sleep in oak casks, gradually drawing on the tannins and hemi-cellulose in the oak and slowly developing rich and complex flavours, losing its fiery nature and changing into a beautiful deep golden nectar.
Cognac producers have, over the centuries, developed a deep understanding of the cognac process. They have learnt the best type and size of cask to use, how long to keep it in the casks, the best cellars conditions to store the casks in and numerous other skills which have made the fully matured cognac, The King of all Spirits. These priceless gems of the spirit world provide a completeness of maturity and are offered for sale in large glass sealed bonbonnes, and where their perfect qualities are preserved for generations to follow.
Hermitage Cognac, the Perfect Investment
The period between around 1865 and 1940 was when the finest old cognacs were produced. The Cognacais had learnt the skills of distillation and ageing and many of the old cognacs from this period have matured sufficiently long enough to provide qualities that are superior to those both before and after this period. That’s not to say there aren’t good cognacs after the 1940’s it is just that there are very few which have matured fully in cask available. The term ‘Paradis’ applies to Hermitage Cognacs produced before 1900.
Hermitage Cognacs are based in Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire with an operational base near Segonzac in the premier cru of Cognac, Grande Champagne. It is from this base that we have been able to use our vast experience to search and find cognacs which have been stored in old cellars for decades. In many cases, barrels or bonbonnes are in hidden corners of the cellars and may have been ignored for many years. But not every cognac is good, we taste and test them for their quality. we research their history and check the quantity available before we buy them and put them into our cellars in France.
The average value of cognacs is currently appreciating at around 7 – 10% a year, depending on the barrel age and vintage, cognacs of this quality can appreciate faster. When you buy an old cognac you are buying a fully matured spirit which unlike most whiskies, which are only partially matured, are in perfect condition. Cognacs which have reached this state are kept in sealed bonbonnes and can be either stored in them or bottled according to our customers wishes.
As we embrace the summer season, Brandyclassics is delighted to present our exclusive July offers, designed to add a touch of luxury to your celebrations. Whether you’re marking a significant anniversary, a milestone birthday, or simply enjoying a refreshing summer drink, our carefully selected spirits make the perfect gifts. Plus, enjoy a special 15% discount on each of these exceptional products:
Hermitage Cognac Cigar 15 – Perfect for a 15 Year Anniversary
Celebrate a 15-year anniversary or any special occasion with the Hermitage Cognac Cigar 15. This fine cognac is known for its rich and complex flavours, pairing wonderfully with a cigar to offer an elegant and memorable experience. Its intricate notes and balanced finish make it an impressive gift that signifies both tradition and sophistication.
Montanaro Grappa di Barolo – A Lovely Summer Drink
Looking for a delightful summer drink? The Montanaro Grappa di Barolo is an excellent choice. This grappa is perfect for sipping on warm evenings, with its aromatic notes and smooth finish providing a refreshing and sophisticated touch. It’s a wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates fine spirits and is ideal for summer gatherings.
Delord Vintage 1964 Bas Armagnac – Celebrate a 60th Birthday
Mark a 60th birthday with the extraordinary Delord Vintage 1964 Bas Armagnac. This exceptional spirit, aged to perfection since 1964, offers a unique and luxurious tasting experience. Its deep, rich flavours and historical significance make it a remarkable gift for such a milestone celebration.
Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers. Celebrate in style with Brandyclassics.
Father’s Day is just around the corner on 16th June! What better way to show your appreciation than with a luxurious bottle of French brandy? Whether your dad loves Cognac, Armagnac, or Calvados, we have the perfect selection of premium spirits that make an unforgettable gift.
Aroma: Elegant and complex with notes of oak, tobacco, and dried fruits.
Flavour: Exceptionally smooth with layers of figs, dark chocolate, and a hint of rancio.
ABV: 41%
Each of these premium French brandies embodies the essence of their respective regions and offers a unique tasting experience that will surely delight any connoisseur. Make this Father’s Day extra special with a gift that shows the father or special male figure in your life just how much he means to you. Cheers to all the wonderful fathers and father figures out there!
