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Bring Festive Flair to Your Celebrations with Exceptional Spirits

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The festive season is the perfect time to indulge in premium spirits that can transform dishes, desserts, and drinks, as well as make thoughtful and luxurious gifts. From rich Bas Armagnac to fruity liqueurs, these seven standout categories offer versatility and elegance for any festive occasion.

1. Pineau: Bertrand Pineau des Charentes Rosé 5 Year Old

A delightful blend of Cognac and grape juice, Bertrand Pineau des Charentes Rosé 5 Year Old is a vibrant and fruity spirit. Its natural sweetness makes it ideal for festive desserts like trifles or poached fruit. With its rosy hue and light, refreshing flavour, it’s also a perfect aperitif to serve at holiday gatherings. As a gift, its unique character offers a sophisticated choice for those who love trying something new.

2. Calvados: Dupont Pays d’Auge More Than 30 Y/O Calvados

Aged for over 30 years, Dupont Pays d’Auge More Than 30 Y/O Calvados is an exceptional apple brandy with deep, complex flavours. This luxurious spirit is perfect for enhancing festive bakes like spiced apple tarts or for creating a show-stopping glaze for roast pork. Its refined taste and heritage also make it a prestigious gift, especially for lovers of fine Calvados.

3. Cognac: Hermitage 2004 Grande Champagne Cognac

Renowned for its richness and elegance, Hermitage 2004 Grande Champagne Cognac is a must-have for Christmas celebrations. Use it to elevate classic dishes like duck à l’orange or to enrich festive sauces and gravies. This beautifully crafted Cognac also shines in desserts such as Christmas pudding or chocolate truffles. As a gift, it’s a timeless choice for Cognac connoisseurs, with its single-estate origin and exquisite finish.

4. Liqueur: Nusbaumer Suprême de Cassis

For a burst of berry flavour, Nusbaumer Suprême de Cassis is a liqueur that exudes festive cheer. Perfect for making classic Kir Royales or drizzling over pavlovas and cheesecakes, it brings a touch of luxury to any festive spread. Packaged beautifully, it also makes a thoughtful gift for those who enjoy fruity, vibrant flavours.

5. Vermouth: Montanaro Aperitivo 6PM

The bittersweet sophistication of Montanaro Aperitivo 6PM makes it a standout choice for holiday cocktails. Its complex botanical notes pair wonderfully with Prosecco to create festive spritzes or as a base for Negronis. Its stylish presentation also makes it a chic gift for cocktail enthusiasts, adding flair to their Christmas bar.

6. Eau de Vie: Nusbaumer Eau de Vie Mirabelle

Distilled from golden Mirabelle plums, Nusbaumer Eau de Vie Mirabelle is a spirit of pure fruit essence. Use it to infuse festive pastries or as a subtle, aromatic addition to fruit compotes. Its refined taste and artisanal production make it a sophisticated gift for anyone with a passion for elegant, understated spirits.

7. Bas Armagnac: Delord Vintage 1995 Bas Armagnac

A rare and distinguished offering, Delord Vintage 1995 Bas Armagnac boasts warm, nutty flavours and a long finish. It’s a fantastic pairing for Christmas cheese boards or can be sipped by the fire as an after-dinner indulgence. Its vintage status and exceptional quality make it a perfect gift for collectors or those who appreciate truly fine spirits.

Spirits for Every Festive Moment

From cooking and cocktails to memorable gifts, these seven exceptional spirits bring luxury and flavour to the festive season. Whether enhancing your Christmas recipes or giving the gift of indulgence, each one offers a unique way to celebrate.

🎁 Shop now and make this Christmas unforgettable!

Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac: A Century of Mastery

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The Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac stands as an extraordinary testament to the art of cognac making, having spent a century maturing in oak barrels deep within the cellars of Grande Champagne. This exceptional release offers collectors and connoisseurs a rare opportunity to experience history in a glass, embodying a level of craftsmanship that few have the privilege to taste. Unearthed from a venerable estate dating back to the 1880s, the Siècle d’Or, or “Century of Gold,” encapsulates the highest standards of distillation and ageing, carried through generations of expertise. From its terroir in Lignières Sonneville, this rare nectar is made from the finest Ugni Blanc grapes, distilled on traditional Alembic Charentais stills and aged in Segonzac, where it has developed the prized ‘rancio’ qualities that are so sought after by cognac aficionados.

Aged for an incredible 100 years, the Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac possesses a level of complexity that few spirits can match. Its bouquet is an intricate weave of cocoa, dried fig, burnt sugar, truffle, and cloves, each element matured to perfection over the course of a century. On the palate, these aromas evolve into an extraordinary symphony of flavours: rich notes of cocoa and burnt toffee give way to a deep ginger spice, earthy mushroom, and the sweetness of candied fruit. The finish is both long and memorable, with a distinct kumquat flavour that lingers on the tongue, leaving an indelible impression of its Grande Champagne heritage. The balance and depth of this cognac are unrivalled, a reflection of the patience and mastery involved in its creation.

For the cognac collector, the Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac is nothing short of a masterpiece. Its rarity alone makes it a prized possession; only a handful of cognacs have been aged for a century, and even fewer have retained the quality and integrity that this one exhibits. Encased in a stunning hand-blown crystal decanter, crafted by the renowned Cumbria Crystal artisans, each bottle is a work of art in itself. The gold-leaf engraving on the decanter further enhances its status as a collector’s item, presenting a bottle that is as beautiful as the cognac it holds. Whether displayed in a private collection or kept as an heirloom to pass through generations, the Siècle d’Or offers more than just a tasting experience—it offers a legacy.

This release is also the perfect gift for those who appreciate the finer things in life. With only 68 decanters available worldwide, gifting one of these limited-edition decanters, is akin to presenting a piece of history. The meticulous craftsmanship of both the cognac and its decanter makes it an exceptional choice for significant milestones or as a gesture of the highest regard. Whether for a discerning connoisseur or as a statement piece for an extraordinary occasion, this 100 year old cognac represents the pinnacle of luxury.

To gift the Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac is to bestow an experience of unparalleled sophistication, one that will be cherished and remembered for years to come.

Experience the Essence of Alsace: Nusbaumer Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer Eau de Vie

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As you explore the refined world of eaux de vie, Nusbaumer Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer Eau de Vie stands out as a classic example of Alsace’s celebrated tradition in crafting pure, grape-based spirits. Known for its dedication to quality and authenticity, the French producer Nusbaumer has created a vibrant, aromatic spirit that captures the essence of Gewürztraminer grapes, a varietal cherished for its complexity and character.

Originating from the Marc of Alsace Gewürztraminer, this eau de vie is distilled from the skins of Gewürztraminer grapes after pressing. Distilled in small copper pot stills, Nusbaumer carefully preserves the grape’s unique aromatic profile, which sets it apart from other eaux de vie. As a result, Nusbaumer Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer boasts a captivating nose with lush floral notes, particularly rose petals, along with a subtle fruitiness reminiscent of lychee and a hint of spice—a characteristic bouquet that makes it ideal for those who appreciate aromatic spirits.

The tasting experience is truly memorable. When sipped cold, the spirit reveals layered complexity. It opens with a burst of rose and exotic fruit, followed by a gentle spice that lingers. Unlike many other eaux de vie, Nusbaumer Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer has a distinctive, dry finish that cleanses the palate, making it an ideal digestif. Its floral notes pair particularly well with creamy cheeses or rich dishes, and it’s equally delightful when sipped on its own to end a meal with finesse.

Notably, Nusbaumer’s Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer reflects the spirit of the region it hails from. Alsace is renowned for its terroir, and the Gewürztraminer grape thrives in this environment, contributing to the rich, aromatic character of the final eau de vie. Nusbaumer’s commitment to natural flavours means this spirit is free from artificial additives, ensuring an unadulterated experience that highlights the grape’s inherent qualities.

For those looking to elevate their spirits collection, Nusbaumer Marc d’Alsace Gewürztraminer Eau de Vie is more than a drink; it’s a nod to Alsace’s proud heritage and Nusbaumer’s mastery. Whether it’s gifted or enjoyed personally during the festive season, it adds a unique touch of elegance to any occasion.

The Hermitage Trilogy collection

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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.

Celebrate National Brandied Fruit Day with Hermitage 10 Year Old Cognac

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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

Ingredients:

  • 500g mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, cherries)
  • 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:

  1. Soak the fruits: In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with 100ml of the Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
  2. Cover and leave to soak overnight, allowing the fruits to absorb the Cognac’s rich flavours.
  3. 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.
  4. 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).
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Cognac Investment: A Timeless Asset

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Cognac is not only a fine spirit to savour but also a valuable investment opportunity, particularly when it comes to rare, well-aged vintages. With increasing global demand and limited supply, the value of high-quality, vintage Cognac has been steadily rising, making it a worthwhile asset for collectors and investors alike.

Unlike whisky, Cognac is typically aged for longer periods, often maturing in oak barrels for decades. This ageing process, combined with the exclusivity of Single Estate and vintage bottlings, creates a unique and desirable product that can appreciate significantly over time. Investing in vintage Cognac offers both the joy of owning a piece of history and the potential for impressive financial returns.

Hermitage Cognac offer some of the finest investment opportunities, with prestigious selections like the Hermitage Paradis range, the exquisite Marie Louise Decanter, and the limited-edition Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac.

These extraordinary cognacs are produced from the highest-quality grapes in the Grande Champagne area, and their remarkable age and provenance make them ideal for both collectors and investors.

Why Cognac Investment is on the Rise:• Limited Supply: As the best vintages mature and stocks diminish, demand for fine, aged Cognacs continues to grow.

• Global Demand: New markets, particularly in Asia, are showing increasing interest in investing in rare spirits.

• Stable Value Growth: Rare Cognacs have shown steady appreciation, offering both a luxury item and a tangible asset.

• Historical Legacy: Vintage Cognacs carry a sense of history, making them unique and desirable for collectors.

• Longevity: Properly stored Cognac can last for centuries, adding to its long-term investment potential.

Investing in fine Cognac, such as the Hermitage Paradis range, the exquisite Marie Louise Decanter, or the rare Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac, is about more than just acquiring a bottle—it’s about owning a piece of history. These prestigious Cognacs, with their rich provenance and exceptional artistry, offer a unique blend of luxury and heritage that will not only enhance your collection but continue to appreciate in value, making them a truly timeless investment.

Hermitage Paradis Cognacs: Unlocking the Secrets of Aged Perfection

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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.

Fall Favorites: Get 15% Off Autumn Drinks & Gifts!

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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 this October discount and enjoy these quintessential autumn drinks. Cheers to a season of rich flavours and fine spirits!

What is White Armagnac?

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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.

18.50 COCKTAIL

Ingredients:

Method:

  1. Pour the 60ml Blanche de Cassagnoles Armagnac, 20ml Lillet Blanc, 10ml Campari, and 5ml liqueur into a mixing glass.
  2. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir gently for around 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
  3. Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled glass.
  4. Express the oils from the orange zest by twisting it over the glass, then discard.
  5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry for a finishing touch.

This cocktail is an elegant harmony of bitter, sweet, and fruity notes, making it an ideal choice for those crisp autumn evenings.

The Blanche de Cassagnoles Armagnac brings a fresh, pear-like quality that complements the herbal and citrus layers of Lillet Blanc and Campari.

The Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac: A Masterpiece of Time and Craftsmanship

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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 50 Year 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.