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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.

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.

Celebrate National Cognac Day with Hermitage Cognac

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%

1882 Cognac Bonbonne Sells for £90,000

1882 cognacDelighted to have sold our latest bonbonne of 1882 cognac to Hedonism Wines in Mayfair and, with an asking price of £90k, it was snapped up by one of their customers within 24 hours.  Presented in a traditional wicker basket, the bonbonne contains 10 litres of Hermitage 1882 Grande Champagne Cognac.

The cognac would have been made in 300-litre stills and, although small, these were probably the only size that most producers could afford at the time.  It would have been aged in bariques of around 250 litres, for more than 70 years.  No reduction has taken place and so it is presented at its natural strength of 41% abv.  The tannins from the wood have given this cognac deep and rich flavours of demerara sugar, plums and sweet orange peel with a delicious long rancio, the much favoured richness, so highly desirable in these fine old cognacs.

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Distilled in the late nineteenth century, 1882, this was the year when the first stone was laid for Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona and major European powers signed the first Geneva Convention, ratified by the US, who also legitimised the International Red Cross.

Father's Day 2023 – Sunday 18th June

Father's Day 2023It’s that time of year again when fathers everywhere bask in the limelight for one special day.  Father’s Day 2023 falls on Sunday 18th June so what will you be buying to say “thank you” to that very important member of your family?

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If Dad’s a brandy drinker we have a huge selection of vintage cognacarmagnac and calvados.  All aged to perfection in French Oak barrels they are mellow and flavoursome.  We specialise in single estate, unblended cognacs made by Hermitage so take a look around, starting below with our Offers, you will find many luxurious bottlings with individual flavours.

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And if brandy is not his favourite, what about our organic whisky range from Denmark?  This award-winning producer uses local water which is pure, hard, and full of minerals and as the old saying goes ‘hard water makes soft whisky’.

Larsen Cognac Challenges The Stereotype

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!