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Tag: cognac

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

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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

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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

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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.

Celebrate National Cognac Day with Hermitage Cognac

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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%

Hermitage Trilogy Cognacs

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Hermitage Cognac unveils ‘The Trilogy’, featuring Cigar 15, Café 20, and Cacao 25 Grande Champagne Cognacs. Aged without colour or sugar additives, each bottle epitomises top cru excellence for the true connoisseur’s delight. This sensory journey, highlighting our distinctive mocha and roasted nuts house style, honours the tapestry of 20th Century café culture.

The packaging, reminiscent of Impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s allure, artfully intertwines the sophistication of cognac, coffee, cigars, and cacao.

Hermitage Trilogy Cognacs

Hermitage Cigar 15 Cognac: Many fine aromas of tobacco, almond and nutmeg precede. The drier forest floor flavours with walnut, saffron and cocoa tailing off to a long, kumquat finish. Abv 41% 

Hermitage Café 20 Cognac: A rich, robust, dark cognac with mocha, coffee and roasted walnut flavours combined with brittle toffee and some citrus finishing notes.  Abv 42% 

Hermitage Cacao 25 Cognac: Initial aromas of dark chocolate complement balanced flavours including wild cherries, bay leaves, ginger, honey and a long orange marmalade finish. Abv 43%

‘The Trilogy’ encapsulates the essence of Grande Champagne quality, presenting a refined fusion of flavours inspired by a timeless era in every sip.

Hermitage Returns to Prowine Singapore 23 – 26 April 2024

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Discover why Hermitage Single Estate Cognacs are revered as the pinnacle of luxury. Our commitment to sourcing high quality, aged premier cru cognacs ensures an unparalleled tasting experience. From 20 year old cask matured eaux de vie to rare finds aged for nearly a century, our cognacs are free from artificial additives, and boast age statements for transparency.

Chosen for maximum flavour and minimal alcohol burn, Hermitage Single Estate Cognacs undergo long barrel ageing in dark, humid cellars by seasoned cellar masters. Plus, enjoy competitive prices that are only half that of big brand generic blends like VSOP and XO.

Hermitage Single Estate, Premier Cru Cognacs are magnificent examples of luxury and  our Asian customers adore them. We are now actively distributing our fine cognacs across Southeast Asia. Tasting is believing so come and taste the mastery of tradition at Prowine Singapore, 23 – 26 April, booth 2C2-11. Sample our classic cognacs, including the Hermitage 50 Year Old, Hermitage 1944, 1960, 2004, and the magnificent 1 litre crystal decanter, Marie Louise 70 Year Old, all timeless classics from the Grande Champagne region.

Looking to offer your customers the finest cognacs? Look no further than Hermitage Cognac.

 Register your visit to Prowine Singapore 2024 for free here.

The Cognac Show 2024

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Prepare your senses for a two day cognac extravaganza as the highly acclaimed Cognac Show makes a grand return on 22 – 23 March 2024, at the exquisite Glaziers Hall on the scenic bank of the Thames. This celebration promises to reignite the passion for Cognac, once the UK’s favourite spirit.

The Cognac Show

History and Rediscovery:

Once the darling of the UK, Cognac aims to reclaim its glory at the Cognac Show. Comparable to whisky in its aged sophistication, Cognac unveils a world of variety and complexity, inviting enthusiasts to appreciate its rich heritage and nuanced flavours. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a novice, the Cognac Show promises to be your gateway to the charm and wonder of cognac.

Indulge in the grandes dames of cognac with special tokens granting access to super premium old and rare bottles. Over 150 Cognacs will be available for tasting across the different stands.

Visit us:

Visit the Hermitage Cognac team at stand one, where our finest releases, including age statements, vintages, and the new Trilogy range, will be available for tasting. Our Dream Pours for this year are the Hermitage 50 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac and the opulent Hermitage Marie Louise Crystal Decanter, showcasing the pinnacle of cognac craftsmanship.

Secure Your Tickets:

Tickets are on sale now on the Cognac Show website. For more information about our products or to plan your visit, email us at cognac@brandyclassics.com. Leave behind your slippers and smoking jacket – step into the new world of Cognac at the Cognac Show 2024!

Mother’s Day 2024

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Wondering what to buy for Mother’s Day 2024? We have a unique selection of brandies and dessert wines to suit every Mum ….

Gift Mum the Hermitage 2005 Grande Champagne Cognac which, as with all our cognacs, was created with exceptional skill – no caramel or sugar syrup were added – a considerable achievement with a young cognac. 

If she loves an after dinner drink, then the Grappa Torcolato is a beautiful addition to any drinks cabinet. Perfect as an after dinner ‘digestive’ or add to expresso coffee to create a ‘caffè corretto’.

Dupont Dream Calvados Cream has a deliciously clean apple flavour. If she likes cream liqueurs she will love this!

If Mum loves her dessert wines then the Chateau de Beaulon 2000 Pineau des Charentes is a delicious and rich choice that is perfect on its own or with the sweet course.

The Dupont Pomme Captive Pays d’Auge Calvados is a highly specialised product that contains an attractive apple macerating in calvados and makes for an appealing gift this Mother’s Day.

Larsen Cognac Challenges The Stereotype

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Larsen CognacA recent article in Trend Hunter explains how Larsen Cognac is challenging the traditional image of cognac with its new campaign. Cognac has traditionally been viewed as a niche product associated with older, affluent individuals. However, in recent years, cognac brands have worked hard to appeal to younger audiences by introducing innovative packaging and partnerships with popular culture and fashion icons.  Their aim is to break down the perception that cognac is only for the elite and make it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Larsen Cognac is now following that trend by creating a campaign to reinvigorate their brand.  Their new ‘Discover’ concept, has been designed to ‘challenge the idea of who cognac is for and how it can be consumed’. Mika Raukko, representing Larsen Cognac, said “The world is changing and so are the consumers.  They expect brands to be more inclusive, diverse and authentic.  The ‘Discover’ concept stems from the insight that making a new discovery in life makes us grow.  And in order to make new discoveries you need to view the world with fresh eyes and be open to changing perspectives.”

There is no doubt that this resonates well with how people today are seeking new experiences that enrich their lives.  And of course, all cognac brands will benefit from added exposure to a wider, younger audience as cognac becomes more mainstream.  Not all cognac brands are the same so we must applaud Larsen’s call to be adventurous and try new offerings.  We certainly class Hermitage as different from the rest!