Exploring the Luxurious Cognac Trail in France

Cognac symbolizes luxury and status, which is why it is favored by many celebrities. However, the town of Cognac in rural western France may surprise visitors with its unassuming charm. As you stroll through its cobbled streets lined with pale stone buildings and weathered white shutters, you might not anticipate that this tranquil location hosts some of the world’s most esteemed liquor houses. Behind closed doors and within ancient cellars, cellar masters have been creating exceptional eau-de-vie since the 17th century, transforming grapes into the iconic amber spirit that defines this region.

Located just a two-hour drive from Bordeaux airport, Cognac attracts enthusiasts eager to partake in private tours of its historic vineyards and cellars, including renowned houses such as Rémy Martin and Hennessy. The Martell House features a museum which chronicles the production house’s rich history, beginning in 1715 when Jean Martell, a 21-year-old from Jersey, established the brand. The museum’s archives, spanning three centuries, contain original correspondence with the first vineyards and vintage art deco advertisements. Stepping into the founder’s beautifully dim cellar, the air is infused with the warm scent of aging cognac from dusty barrels dating back to the 1600s, still contributing to Martell’s blends today.

In the picturesque Bordeaux terroir, the majestic Château de Chanteloup has been home to generations of the Martell family. The 16th-century estate is a stunning sight, and upon arrival, we are welcomed by friendly baby deer grazing in the sunshine. Inside, the château exudes an art de vivre ambiance, adorned with pink velvet sofas trimmed in orange, white marble fireplaces, and turquoise lamps, complemented by antique rugs creatively displayed as tapestries.

Though the château is now open to visitors, overnight stays are restricted to “private friends of Martell.” For others, a distinctive private dining experience is available at €500 per person: a menu curated by Martell’s cellar master Christophe Valtaud in collaboration with three-Michelin-star chef Alexandre Mazzia. Guests can savor fine Martell cognac meticulously paired with gourmet dishes in an exclusive dining setting.

The intimate dining area boasts a minimalist decor with an open kitchen where chefs expertly prepare a symphony of culinary delights, utilizing techniques like glazing and blowtorching to create visually stunning edible artworks.

During our meal, we enjoyed dishes such as langoustine complemented with seaweed, popcorn, and a citrus-infused condiment, paired with Martell Odyssée. Following this, we were treated to cep cannele, flambéed with cognac and paired with Martell XXO Grande Champagne. Desserts included a cardamom-infused coffee ice cream alongside Martin Epoche cognac.

This remarkable dining journey is sure to evoke lasting memories, as it reflects the hidden treasures of this serene town, often unearthed only by those who know where to seek them.

Additional Luxurious Cognac Tours Worth Considering

Exclusive Tour at House of Hennessy

House of Hennessy invites guests to explore the life of its founder Richard Hennessy. This private visit includes a rare look into the founder’s cellar and a guided tasting of Hennessy XO and Richard Hennessy, showcasing some of the rarest eau-de-vie. Details: Richard Hennessy Private Tour, €500 per person.

Bourgoin Cognac in Saint-Saturnin

Experience a vintage horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards of Bourgoin, a family-run artisanal cognac producer. The hour-long journey includes insights from a Bourgoin family member and the opportunity to sample Pineau des Charentes right among the vines. Details: Starting from €90.

House of Rémy Martin, Poitou-Charentes

Discover Rémy Martin’s finest cognac, Louis XIII, on an exclusive tour that reveals the house’s oldest cellars and beautiful Grande Champagne vineyards. Tastings of the rare Louis XIII cognac are included. Details: Starting from €1500. Louis XIII The Experience.