Cognac

Cognac is a type of brandy produced in a specific region of France centered around Cognac, covering most of the Charente, Charente-Maritime, and enclaves in Dordogne and Deux-Sèvres.

To be qualified as "cognac," production must adhere to strict regulations. The know-how related to cognac production was inscribed in the French Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory in 2020.

Since 1938, the production area has been divided into six crus:

- Grande Champagne, the 1st cru of cognac, which produces the finest eaux-de-vie;

- Petite Champagne, which produces very fine eaux-de-vie;

- Borderies, which offers a faster maturation than Grande and Petite Champagne;

- Fins Bois, the largest production area, which produces fruity eaux-de-vie;

- Bons Bois, where the influence of the terroir is more pronounced;

- Bois Ordinaires or À Terroir, which have a rapid maturation and are influenced by the ocean.