Skip to content

We ship internationally to over 50 countries !International Shipping to over 50 countries    |     Trade Customer?    Placing a large order?    Just need advice?    Please call +44(0) 1225 863988

Understanding VSOP and XO Cognac: A Deeper Dive into Age and Quality

Posted / in Learning about Brandy, Trade Training and tagged , , , ,

When exploring the world of Cognac, two terms often encountered are VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) and XO (Extra Old). These labels indicate the age of the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend—four years for VSOP and ten years for XO. However, the story behind these labels is far more nuanced, especially when considering the practices of major producers versus smaller, artisanal distillers.

The Reality of VSOP and XO Cognac

Historically, VSOP and XO cognacs represented significant quality and ageing. XO, in particular, used to indicate a blend where the average age was around 25 years. However, due to commercial pressures, many mass-produced XO cognacs today contain spirits that are much younger, often barely meeting the ten year minimum. This shift has led to a broad spectrum of quality within these categories, making it challenging for consumers to gauge the true value and character of the cognac they are purchasing.

Why Hermitage Cognac Stands Apart

At Hermitage Cognac, we have chosen to eschew these generic labels in favour of age statements and vintages. This decision is rooted in our commitment to authenticity and transparency. Unlike the large houses that blend hundreds of different eaux de vie, Hermitage focuses on single estate cognacs from the premier cru region of Grande Champagne. This ensures that each bottle offers a pure, unadulterated expression of the terroir and technique behind it.

Our entry level Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is an exceptional choice. It is barrel aged for a minimum of ten years and is refined, luxurious and unblended, a spirit which far exceeds young generic blends with a minimum age requirement of only four years. In comparison, our 10 year old cognac offers a depth and complexity that only comes from much longer ageing in oak casks.

Hermitage 20 year old Grande Champagne Cognac has a minimum barrel age of 20 years, thus making it a superior choice to XO blends whose minimum age requirement is only 10 years in oak, it offers a richer, more intense and smoother flavour profile. Moreover, it is sourced entirely from a single estate in the Grande Champagne region, ensuring consistency and quality that is unmatched by generic XO cognac blends from larger producers.

The Benefits of Knowing the Age of Your Cognac

By choosing a cognac from Hermitage Cognac, you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of what is in your glass. The age statement on our bottles is not just a number; it is a guarantee of the time, care, and expertise that have gone into producing each cognac. This transparency allows you to appreciate the true character of a well aged spirit, unblended and free from additives that mask the natural flavour.

Owning a bottle of Hermitage Cognac is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in quality and tradition. Each sip offers a journey through decades of careful cellar ageing, reflecting the unique terroir of Grande Champagne. Whether enjoyed personally, given as a gift, or kept as an investment,  a bottle of Hermitage Cognac is a testament to the highest standards of cognac production and an indulgence in the very best that this golden nectar has to offer.

Discovering the Charm of Pineau des Charentes

Posted / in Recipes and tagged , , ,

Pineau des Charentes, a unique fortified wine, blends freshly pressed grape juice with Cognac and hails from the heart of the Cognac region in France. This distinctive drink, available in white, red, and rosé varieties, offers a range of flavours influenced by its age. Younger Pineau is known for its fresh, fruity character, while older versions present more complex notes of dried fruit, nuts, and rich, concentrated flavours. The drink’s versatility makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether enjoyed as an aperitif, a dessert wine, or a delightful base for summer cocktails.

Protected under the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) since 1945, Pineau des Charentes benefits from the expertise of generations of Cognac cellar masters. The drink’s production is deeply rooted in tradition, with a careful balance of 25% Cognac ‘eau de vie’ and 75% grape juice, aged in oak barrels. The result is a spirited wine that captures the essence of the Cognac region. It’s a versatile drink that pairs exceptionally well with various dishes, from seafood and white meats to rich desserts like chocolate and blue cheeses. Pineau’s lightness and modest alcohol content of around 17% make it a great choice for both before and after a meal.

As we embrace the summer season, Pineau des Charentes shines as a refreshing and elegant option for outdoor gatherings. Its light, fruity profile is perfect for warm evenings spent with friends and family. The Château Montifaud Pineau des Charentes White 4YO, in particular, is an excellent representation of this style, offering a taste that is both sophisticated and accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to Pineau, this product is sure to impress.

For those looking to explore Pineau des Charentes in a new way, we recommend trying the Pineaujito—a summer cocktail that swaps rum for Pineau, adding a unique twist to a classic recipe:

  1. Crush 8 fresh mint leaves in a tall glass.
  2. Add 6 pieces of lime.
  3. Mix in 4 teaspoons of brown sugar (or 12 teaspoons of cane sugar).
  4. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
  5. Pour in 60 ml of Château Montifaud Pineau des Charentes White 4YO
  6. Stir well and top with sparkling water.
  7. Garnish with a mint leaf.

This cocktail not only highlights the fresh, fruity notes of Pineau but also offers a refreshing alternative to more traditional summer drinks. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the unique qualities of Pineau des Charentes while celebrating the warm weather.

At Brandyclassics, we are proud to feature the Château Montifaud Pineau des Charentes White 4YO in our selection. This Pineau is a beautiful representation of the tradition and expertise that define the Cognac region. To add this delightful drink to your collection and make the most of your summer, visit our product page.

Hermitage Paradis Cognacs

Posted / in News and tagged , ,

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.

Our availability of bottled and duty paid Hermitage Paradis Cognacs include the following vintages. 1875, 1880, 1883, 1885, 1887, 1889, 1890 & 1893 Larger quantities of Hermitage cognacs in bond include 1881, 1882, 1884, 1886, 1888 & 1889, all of these cognacs are in 30 litre wax sealed bonbonnes. Deliveries are normally in wood crates to both National and International markets.

July Offers Perfect for Special Occasions

Posted / in News and tagged , , , ,

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.

The Launch of Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac: A Collector’s Dream

Posted in Uncategorized and tagged

Today marks the highly anticipated launch of Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac, a remarkable find set to captivate collectors and connoisseurs with its unparalleled rarity and luxury.

A Century of Excellence
Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac is a marvel unearthed from the hallowed vaults of a distinguished cognac house, whose origins trace back to the early 1880s. This sublime nectar, christened “Siècle d’Or” in homage to an illustrious golden century of French history, signifies immense quality and intense flavours generated during its hundred years in an oak barrel. Made from ugni blanc grape variety in the region around Lignières Sonneville, an area known for its exceptional terroir, it was distilled on  traditional Alembic Charentais stills and aged for one hundred years in oak casks in Segonzac where it has developed the much sought after rice ‘rancio’ qualities, much admired by cognac experts and connoisseurs. 

Traditional Craftsmanship and Superb Complexity
The Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac is distinguished by its wonderful balance, characteristic of a cognac of such venerable age. It is complemented by a lingering rancio finish, leaving an indelible mark upon the palate with its vibrant complexity. The aromatic bouquet of cocoa, dried fig, burnt sugar, truffle, and cloves, prepares the senses for a symphony of flavours. This includes notes of cocoa, burnt toffee, ginger, mushroom, and candied fruit, culminating in a long kumquat fruit finish.

A Limited Edition Collector’s Gem
The true distinction of Hermitage Siècle d’Or lies in its extraordinary rarity. With a mere 68 individually numbered decanters available globally, this cognac is a singular masterpiece. It’s believed no other examples of Premier Cru, Single Estate cognacs of this age have been identified, solidifying its status as a once-in-a-lifetime find. Each decanter, meticulously crafted by Cumbria Crystal, is presented in a beautifully crated wooden box, making it a treasure to be cherished and savoured for generations.

Cumbria Crystal: A Tradition of Excellence
Founded in 1976 by Lord and Lady Cavendish, Cumbria Crystal stands as one of the last bastions of traditional craftsmanship in the United Kingdom. The Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac decanter, hand-blown and adorned with gold leaf engraving, reflects a profound reverence for tradition and heritage. Crafting each decanter requires a minimum of two weeks of meticulous labour, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship involved in creating this exceptional vessel.


Tasting Notes and Profile

  • Strength: 40.5% ABV
  • Colour: Rich Tan
  • Aroma: Cocoa, dried fig, burnt sugar, truffle, and cloves
  • Flavour: Complex and rich, featuring cocoa, burnt toffee, ginger, mushroom, and candied fruit, with a long kumquat fruit finish
  • Viticulture: Rolling hills of Lignières Sonneville
  • Distillation: Small Alembic Charentais Still
  • Ageing: 100 years in Limousin oak barrels, kept in damp cellars

Available Now

Launched today, Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. This exclusive release is a symbol of luxury that will be cherished by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Hermitage Siècle d’Or promises an unparalleled experience of sophistication and elegance.

Celebrate World Gin Day with a Refreshing Apple Gin Cocktail

Posted / in Uncategorized and tagged

World Gin Day is a global celebration held on the second Saturday of June each year, and this year it falls on the 8th of June. It’s the perfect opportunity for gin enthusiasts and newcomers alike to explore and enjoy the diverse and exciting world of gin. From its botanical origins to its rich history, gin has a unique place in the world of spirits. To mark this special day, we have a delightful gin cocktail recipe that captures the essence of summer with a refreshing twist.

Introducing the “Summer Orchard Fizz”

The “Summer Orchard Fizz” is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the crisp notes of Mosgaard Organic Filippa Apple Gin, the zesty sweetness of freshly squeezed orange juice, and the subtle Mediterranean flavours of Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water. This cocktail is perfect for sipping in the sun and celebrating World Gin Day with friends and family.

Ingredients:

  • 25ml Mosgaard Organic Filippa Apple Gin
  • 100ml freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 150ml Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water
  • Ice blocks
  • Orange zest for garnish

Method:

  1. Fill a cocktail glass with ice blocks.
  2. Add 100ml of freshly squeezed orange juice.
  3. Pour 25ml of Mosgaard Organic Filippa Apple Gin over the ice.
  4. Top up the glass with 150ml Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water.
  5. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
  6. Garnish with a twist of orange zest.

Enjoying Your Summer Orchard Fizz

This delightful cocktail is best enjoyed outdoors, whether you’re hosting a garden party, having a picnic in the park, or simply relaxing on your patio. The fresh apple notes from the Mosgaard Organic Filippa Apple Gin pair beautifully with the citrusy tang of the orange juice and the fragrant herbs in the Mediterranean tonic water. The “Summer Orchard Fizz” is a celebration of summer in a glass, making it the ideal drink for World Gin Day.

Father’s Day Gifting Ideas

Posted in News and tagged

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.

Here are four exquisite options for Father’s Day 2024:

  1. Hermitage 2010 Grande Champagne Cognac
    • Aroma: Fresh and fruity with hints of apricot and vanilla.
    • Flavour: Balanced and smooth with flavours of ripe fruits, oak, and a touch of spice.
    • ABV: 47%
  2. Delord 25 Year Old Bas Armagnac
    • Aroma: Complex bouquet of vanilla, oak, and dried fruits.
    • Flavour: Full-bodied with flavours of prunes, caramel, and a long, spicy finish.
    • ABV: 40%
  3. Toutain XO 8 Year Old Calvados
    • Aroma: Fresh apple and pear notes with a hint of oak.
    • Flavour: Smooth and well-balanced with flavours of baked apple, vanilla, and subtle spice.
    • ABV: 42%
  4. Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
    • 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!

Celebrate National Cognac Day with Hermitage Cognac

Posted / in News and tagged , ,

National Cognac Day, celebrated annually on June 4th, offers an excellent opportunity to delve into the rich history and exquisite craftsmanship of this renowned French spirit. Cognac, a type of brandy that hails from the Cognac region of France, boasts a storied past and a meticulous production process that ensures its premium quality.

History of National Cognac Day

Cognac’s origins trace back to the 16th century when Dutch settlers arrived in the Cognac region to purchase wood, wine, and salt. They faced a preservation challenge when exporting wine back home, prompting them to distil the wine with eau de vie. They discovered that double distillation produced a finer, tastier product, leading to the birth of brandy.

While brandy is produced globally, only brandy from the six designated areas in the Cognac region of France can be called cognac. These regions span Charente-Maritime and Charente in Western France. The Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC) regulates the stringent laws and measures for a brandy to be labelled as cognac. Only specific grape varieties, primarily Ugni Blanc, can be used. The wine must be distilled in an ‘alambic charentais‘, a copper pot still, and then aged in French oak barrels. Longer ageing periods enhance the complexity and aroma of the cognac.

Hermitage Cognac Selections for National Cognac Day

To celebrate National Cognac Day, we recommend four exceptional Hermitage Cognac selections, each with its unique aroma, flavour profile, and characteristics.

  1. Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
    • Aroma: Rich and fruity with notes of dried apricots, vanilla, and a hint of oak.
    • Flavour Profile: Smooth with a well-balanced mix of fruit, vanilla, and a touch of spice. Perfect for a Cognac Old Fashioned.
    • ABV: 43%
  2. Hermitage 20 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
    • Aroma: Intense and complex, featuring dried fruits, figs, and subtle floral notes.
    • Flavour Profile: Full bodied with layers of dried fruit, honey, and a long, rich finish.
    • ABV: 42%
  3. Hermitage Cognac Cacao 25
    • Aroma: Luxurious notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and roasted nuts.
    • Flavour Profile: Decadent with a harmonious blend of mocha, cocoa, and a touch of spice, creating a unique and indulgent experience.
    • ABV: 44%
  4. Hermitage 1960 Grande Champagne Cognac
    • Aroma: Exquisite with a bouquet of old leather, tobacco, and hints of dried fruits.
    • Flavour Profile: Exceptionally smooth with deep flavours of prune, walnut, and a lingering finish of spice and oak.
    • ABV: 40%

Celebrate World Cocktail Day

Posted / in Cocktails, News and tagged

Cognac Old Fashioned

World Cocktail Day, celebrated annually on May 13th, pays tribute to the artistry and skill involved in cocktail crafting. It acknowledges the global significance and diversity of cocktails, tracing back to the first definition of the term “cocktail” in 1806 within The Balance and Columbian Repository, a publication based in Hudson, New York. Cocktails have since become integral to social gatherings, offering a wide array of flavours and concoctions for people to enjoy and unwind. From the classic sophistication of a Martini to the tropical allure of a Piña Colada or the refreshing tang of a Mojito, cocktails provide endless opportunities for creativity and indulgence. World Cocktail Day encourages enthusiasts to explore new recipes, support local bars and mixologists, and raise a toast to the timeless art of cocktail making. So, whether you prefer your drink shaken or stirred, take a moment today to celebrate the enchantment of cocktails and the joy they bring to our lives. Here’s to World Cocktail Day!

And what better way to honour this occasion than by savouring a Cognac Old Fashioned? This refined twist on a classic cocktail combines the intricate, robust flavours of cognac with the timeless sophistication of an Old Fashioned. To concoct this delightful blend, mix 50 ml of Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac, 7.5 ml of simple syrup, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir thoroughly and strain into a chilled glass over a ice cubes. Garnish with a twist of orange peel to add a zesty touch. Sip slowly and relish the harmonious medley of flavours – it’s a cocktail experience beyond compare.

Happy mixing!

World Whisky Day

Posted / in News and tagged , ,

As World Whisky Day approaches on May 18th, our focus turns to Mosgaard Distillery, nestled on the southeastern coastline of the Island of Funen. Founded in 2015 by Gitte and Jes Mosgaard, this distillery is a testament to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the pursuit of flavor.

World Whisky Day

Mosgaard prides itself on crafting exceptional organic whiskys, each a reflection of the pure surroundings and rich traditions of Danish distillation. From the organic Danish Barley Malt to the pure, mineral rich water drawn from beneath the distillery, every aspect of production is meticulously curated for quality and taste.

With a commitment to sustainability at its core, Mosgaard operates with CO2-neutral energy sources and a zero waste ethos, repurposing all remnants from primary production as animal feed. This dedication to environmental stewardship ensures that each sip of Mosgaard Organic Whisky is as pure and flavourful as can be.

Utilising small 50 liter casks, Mosgaard Organic Whisky matures rapidly while preserving its rich, intense, fruity notes.

To prepare for World Whisky Day, we’re highlighting the Mosgaard Organic Whisky range we have for sale on Brandyclassics:

🌟 Mosgaard Organic Oloroso Cask Whisky: A harmonious blend of rich, dark malty flavours and the subtle sweetness of Oloroso sherry.

🌟 Mosgaard Organic Pedro Ximenez Cask Whisky: Indulge in the decadent notes of Pedro Ximenez sherry, beautifully integrated with the smooth complexity of organic whisky. (Grab 15% off this Whisky in the month of May).

🌟 Mosgaard Organic Port Wine Cask Whisky: Experience a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, achieved through careful ageing in select port wine casks.

Cheers to World Whisky Day! 🥃🌎✨