This archive report was first published on 14 October 2019.
Unveiling the Artisan Cognac Tradition ¶
Located in the heart of Cognac, France, the Rémy Martin Estate is a testament to the rich history and dedication that goes into crafting artisan cognac. Founded in 1724, the estate has been perfecting the art of cognac-making for over three centuries.
The estate's commitment to quality is evident in its selection of grapes, which are grown in the highest quality growing regions, or crus, including the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. The French are known for their fastidiousness when it comes to their grapes, and Rémy Martin is no exception, only using the best aromatic grapes that are grown in the most exceptional conditions.
One of the most striking aspects of the estate is its cellars, which feature 140,000 cognac fine champagne eaux-de-vie. The cellars are a labyrinthine network of underground tunnels and chambers, where the cognac is aged in oak barrels that have been carefully selected for their quality. The barrels are made from oak trees that are at least 100 years old and have been individually selected by expert coopers.
As we descended into the cellars, we were struck by the sheer scale of the operation. The cellars are a testament to the patience and dedication required to craft artisan cognac, with some barrels having been in the cellar for over 100 years. The people who started the cognac-making process are long dead, so are their children and their grandchildren. It is their great grandchildren waiting for this batch of the cognac to mature.
Our visit to the estate culminated in a tasting of the revered and rare Rémy Martin Louis XIII, made from baccarat crystal. The name was a tribute to King Louis XIII of France, who was the first monarch to recognise Cognac as a category in its own right in the world of eaux-de-vie. The experience was a poignant reminder of the tradition and passion that goes into crafting artisan cognac.
