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

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.

The Hermitage Trilogy collection

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.