The Three Drinkers in Cognac Wins Award For ‘Cultural Contribution to The Spirits Industry’

The Three Drinkers are delighted to announce that their TV series The Three Drinkers in Cognac has won the award for ‘Cultural Contribution to the Spirits Industry’ at The Spirits Business Awards 2024. Photo Credit Eva Slusarek.

What are the Spirits Business Awards?

Launched in 2019, The Spirits Business Awards is an annual, global competition, that Spanning five core areas – Retail and Marketing, Sustainability and Innovation, Tourism, Products, and People - celebrates excellence across the spirits industry.

This year, The Spirits Business Awards ceremony took place at The Underglobe in London on Thursday 14 November 2024 and was hosted by Claudia Winkleman, best-known for presenting TV shows Strictly Come Dancing and The Traitors.

The Three Drinkers Managing Director Aidy Smith said “I am absolutely delighted that we have been recognised for this award. Our mission as always with The Three Drinkers series was to embrace not only the culture of the regions visited, but also to welcome more diverse faces into the industry. Through The Three Drinkers in Cognac, not only have we showcased the cultural identity of one of the most renowned, yet unknown regions on the planet but we have also ensured that we do our part to support the next generation of drinks talent from underrepresented communities. It’s been an ongoing mission to showcase that diversity in drinks is possible and we’re delighted to stand with our partners who have helped us make that a reality in this latest series. The fact that this has been recognised by the industry fills me with such hope for the future.”

Comments from The Spirits Business

‘A clear winner – The Three Drinkers stood out from a cultural contribution point of view. It has been rolled out to various territories, and brilliantly incorporates food and travel with a spirit-forward approach – and successfully brings people together. There’s a huge community representation, which was highly praised.’

Photo Credit Eva Slusarek

What is ‘The Three Drinkers’?

The Three Drinkers is a returning drinks and food travelogue TV series on Amazon Prime featuring a deliciously diverse revolving roster of guests. From Scotland to Ireland to Cognac, each season is created with the sole intention of showcasing the culture, drinks and food of the regions visited as well as giving those people and communities who struggle to be seen within drinks on TV a chance to shine.

Alongside the multi-award-winning Amazon Three Drinkers TV series, The Three Drinkers also run a drink, travel and lifestyle-focused online magazine thethreedrinkers.com and have a growing social media/influencer presence (@thethreedrinkers @Sypped).

More about The Three Drinkers in Cognac

The Three Drinkers in Cognac follows Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin as they embark on a cultural and gastronomic journey in and around the picturesque French region of Cognac. Featuring Virgin Radio presenter and Persian foodie fanatic Eddy Temple-Morris alongside a returning appearance for travel presenter, journalist and influencer Eulanda Shead-Osagiede, the team take a deep dive into highballs and cocktails, discover the unique dishes of the region, try their hand at chocolate crafting, shoemaking, beekeeping, and more.

In classic Three Drinkers style, and helped by famed houses Courvoisier and Remy Martin, alongside the world-famous orange liqueur of the region, Grand Marnier, The Three Drinkers bust the misconceptions about cognac through their light-hearted, on-screen approach, helping the audience to discover brand new ways of enjoying this world-class spirit. They also check out local, pioneering gin makers, Audemus Distillery while discovering the fascinating world of mixers, sodas and tonics with Franklin & Sons. This is a series for those who seek to be inspired and learn through humour, quirky facts and takeaway titbits of drinks knowledge.

If you would like to watch any of The Three Drinkers series on Amazon Prime, you can do so by clicking on the links below:

The Three Drinkers in Cognac
The Three Drinkers in Ireland
The Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky

The Best Last Minute Boozy Gifts for All Drinks Lovers

It is the last week before Christmas, and if you’re anything like me, there are still presents to buy and bottles to bring to parties. There are plenty of new releases of spirits before Christmas and I’ve had a chance to try a few which are becoming new favourites. I have a few old favourites too. Below is a list of great spirits to suit all pockets should you need to buy something late before Christmas or are thinking of taking something different to a New Year party. Always make sure of the delivery times when it is this close to Christmas and look out for these if you’re in your favourite specialist retailer. I’m giving ideas from brandy to tequila, so I hope you find something you think you or a loved one might like.

Whisky

Dalmore 2005 and 2008 2023 Editions

The vintage releases from Dalmore are always very sought after. With Dalmore’s expert use of multiple types of sherry casks, their whiskies are known for complexity and depth of flavour and these two expressions are no different. They have slightly different profiles with the 2005 having a little more punch and the 2008 being more luxuriant, they are both worth seeking out and any whisky love would be more than pleased have either of them.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 49.3% & 45.8%
Find them here: £375 & £155

Busker Single Pot Still

Busker is new to the UK market and it’s about time this delicious whiskey has come to our shores. Beyond their Triple Cask range, the Royal Oak distillery as their Single Collection and my favourite is this Single Pot Still whiskey. Quintessentially Irish, this is made with both malted and unmalted barley which is unlike single malt whisky and gives the whisky a unique flavour profile of fruits and spices. It’s a great all-rounder with a difference.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44.3%
Find them here: £29.95

Meikle Tòir The Sherry One

The Meikle Tòir whiskies have been created by Billy Walker at Glenallachie distillery. He set out to make the perfect peated whisky from Speyside, and in doing so has created four of them, The Original, The Sherry one, The Chinquapin One and The Turbo. No guessing what The Turbo is all about! The others have a ppm count of 35, and the Turbo is 71 ppm. My favourite was The Sherry One, with all its fruitcake and spice with an oily peaty smoke running though the core of the dram.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Find them here: £52

Table Whisky 

I love this idea of crossing the wine world with the whisky world. Table whisky is a single grain whisky, traditionally a poorer cousin to single malt, but in this case that’s certainly not true. Distilled in Edinburgh, matured in virgin oak and sherry casks it tastes of popcorn, toffee and raspberry jam and I loved it! And at £35 it is certainly an affordable whisky.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £35

The Long & Short of it WS:02

This great new blend hails from the new Boarders distillery. They mix fermentation times which are both long and short to give a complex flavour profile whilst remaining well balanced and fruity. It’s matured in first fill ex bourbon barrels giving plenty of sweetness and is so well integrated with the grain whisky. I’m a fan of blends and this one is yummy. And right now they are giving away glasses with every bottle.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £40

Turntable Paradise Funk

Turntable are a new blending house in Scotland that have now produced a core range. There are six whiskies which are both peated and un-peated. My favourite was Paradise Funk which has flavours of caramelised pineapple, toffee and lots of vanilla. What I also really like about these whiskies is that they give the precise breakdown of the blend. This one is: - 30% unnamed Speyside whisky aged in a virgin oak barrel. - 20% Benrinnes matured in a Chinkapin oak barrel.- 18% Invergordon single grain aged in a Cognac cask.- 13% Knockdhu matured in a virgin oak barrel.- 11% North British single grain matured in a virgin oak barrel.- 8% Blair Athol aged in a first-fill bourbon cask. This openness gives a new way to discover flavour.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find them here: £52.95

Glendronach 12 Year Old

This is an absolute classic sherry styled 12 year old whisky. Full of fruitcake flavours and spice with sweetness and a plentiful mix of dried and fresh orchard fruits. There are a few contenders for a classic sherry style whisky, and most of them are 15 years old and more expensive. This is great value for what you get. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £45.50

Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old

This year saw the long-awaited new core range from Glenglassaugh, and I was blown away by the 12 year old. Of the three whiskies released, two were non age statement whiskies and were very good, this one was the least expensive and I though the most accomplished. The packaging is well thought out with lighter glass for sustainability and is stunning. The whisky has great depth of flavour, beyond its 12 years and there are also vibrant fruity notes too. For value versus flavour this is my whisky of the year. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 45%
Find them here: £49.95

Kavalan Vinho Barrique

This is a whisky which covers the exotic side of things. Hailing from Taiwan, it has a maturation which firstly doesn’t have to be as long as in Scotland as the climate in Taiwan is sub-tropical, but that climate also turbo charges the whisky with flavour. This Vinho Barrique matured expression has so much red fruit and spice it has become unctuous and decadent. With flavours of dark chocolate, plumbs, kiwi, orange, raspberries and red apples this is, like so many whiskies from Kavalan an expressive, exciting whisky. All this complexity and development, and the fact it’s a single cask at cask strength, completely justifies spending more on that special person for Christmas.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 56.3%
Find them here: £198

Yellow Rose Outlaw

Moving over to the other side of the world, I was excited to try some American whiskies from Texas. Made from Texan yellow corn, this is rich and sweet and having been matured in smaller than normal barrels in Houston, the flavours are intense and rich. If you wanted to take a huge step up from drinking bourbons which are readily available in our supermarkets, then this would be a great place to start.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find them here: £63.70

Gin

Melifera Gin

This is an organically produced Gin from France with many different hand-picked botanicals and preserves the biodiversity of the area and supporting the Black Bee Conservatory in Oléron. It is a very herbal gin with floral aromas and flavours mixing in well too. If you like a dry gin without much sweetness, this is certainly going to be up your street.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £39.75

Nordés Gin

Occationally I come across a gin which manages to hit all the bases. A great cocktail base, a good gin for a martini, and fabulous in a gin and tonic. Nordes does exactly that. It comes from Galicia in northwest Spain and is made from Albariño-grape-based spirit. It has great balance of floral, herbal, juniper and also has just the right amount of sweetness in its fruit profile to make this one of best contemporary gins I have tasted in a long while. And you can find it in 3 Litre bottles! Bravo Nordes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £31.99

Micil Irish Poitín

This is something a little different from Ireland. Made in Galway from grain, it is flavoured with bogbean which gives a spicy kick, and some softer floral notes. It’s super over ice and makes great cocktails. If you’d like to try something a little different, or don’t need yet another bottle of gin on your drinks table, then this is definitely worth trying.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find them here: £33.94

Vodka

Nine Tines

Nine Tines is an English vodka made in Yorkshire. The potatoes it’s made from come from their own farm and from within nine miles of where it is made and bottled. 20 varieties of potato give a rich viscous vodka which has nice sweetness and balance. A great addition to the world of vodka.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £39

Dima’s Vodka

Here at The Three Drinkers, we are a huge fan of Dima’s Vodka. If you buy vodka, then this is the one we would advocate every time. Apart from being delicious, viscous, and versatile, it is made in the Ukraine and owned by Ukrainian Dima. From every bottle bought, Dima donates £5 to the plight of Ukraine. What more reason do you need to buy a bottle!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £35

Brandy

Bardinet Inspirations

A new brandy from Bardinet! This is made with mixing in mind, and it is a great brandy for mixing. There is plenty of flavour to stand up to all sorts of mixers and other spirits. Drink it long with ginger ale or lemonade, in a Sidecar or Brandy Alexander. This brandy handles them all, it’s amazing value and can easily be found in most supermarkets. Perfect for Christmas, and adding a little to mulled wine.

 Size: 700ml
ABV: 36%
Find them here: £17

Frapin Chateau de Fontpinot XO

For something more upmarket, I would always trust in Frapin. The Cognac they produce is refined and delicate in flavour. There are signature floral and orange aromas and flavours which will please anyone who is a Cognac lover. The Chateau de Fontpinot XO is my favourite, but their VSOP at under half the price is also excellent. This is a Cognac for beginners and connoisseurs alike.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find them here: £135

Tequila

For my last suggestions, I wanted to come to the world of aged Tequila. In our youth, I am sure we all remember salt on our hands and lemon segments in our teeth, but as we move on we sought out Tequila which was smooth, flavoursome and deserving of our cocktails. From there, is the world of sipping Tequila which has been aged in barrels and has extra flavour and sweetness. These Tequilas may not be the cheapest in the world, but they are definitely worth seeking out if you haven’t tried one before.

Volcan De Mi Tierra XA 

If a whole bottle is a little too much to stomach on your budget at the moment, then this will be found in nightclubs and bars. The elegant bottle has a little party trick. The base which is shaped like a volcano lights up and will certainly be noticed. I’d try it neat before mixing it to experience the full flavour. After that, mix away or put it over ice and enjoy.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £196

Enemigo 00 Zero Zero

Aged for three years in oak, this looks like a rum or whisky in the glass. It is fruity with lots of agave flavour, but also sweet and incredibly well balanced. Superb over ice, it is a great entry into the super-premium world of oak aged Tequila. Flavours of Vanilla, charred oak, green apple and nuttiness mix with plentiful vanilla and honey.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £137.70

Mijenta Anejo

This tequila is aged for eighteen months in oak and is created in small batches., The wood used for aging is French oak, French acacia and cherry wood which gives a great deal of complexity to the tequila with fruits, spices and sweet notes of butterscotch and butter mixing with tobacco and nuts. A great all-round aged tequila which if you’ve not tried, but have tried aged Tequila before, I would seek out.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £152

And there we have it. My suggestions for a very merry Christmas and new year. It’s great time of year to experiment and try something you’ve not had before. I always find the best times to do that, are times I’m with others, and this is a time of year where we get together and share. I always feel drinks are to be shared.

For more last minute gift guides, check out these distillery and winery tours!

Have You Heard of Guinnessy?

You can probably guess from the portmanteau what two drinks you combine to make one. Yep, Guinness and Hennessy.

The new serve caught traction on American TikTok before crossing the Atlantic, as lovers of both liquids fiercely protected the purity of their drinks, but some were ready to embrace the heresy. 

As you can see from our Guinness Recipe guide, it’s probably more versatile than you think and after The Three Drinkers in Cognac, we’re all up for trying cognac with everything, but how the two work together in reality?

Well, from the original TikTok it’s hard to say as it’s ‘shotgunned’ – a shotting technique in which the drink makes a whole in the bottom of the can, and in this case, pours the Hennessy in the top. He did seem to enjoy it though!

There are lovely stouts out there aged in cognac barres, and both cognac and Guinness are used in a tonne of different cocktails recipes, but we think that, on this occasion, all that malty sweetness and hoppy bitterness mixing with the fruity richness will only serve to ruin both drinks to be honest.

Still, we’re always up for mixology experimentation so you never know. Everything is down to personal taste so try it yourself! (‘shotgunning’ optional).

The Top Things to Do in Cognac

The Three Drinkers in Cognac explores everything drinks in the beautiful region of Cognac, from the namesake star of the show to Grand Marnier to our own gin experimentation… but there are a lot of amazing things we couldn’t fit in too!

As much as we adore it, there is much more to Cognac than Cognac, so if you’re eying up a tour of the region or a quick day trip from Bordeaux, here are some other interesting things to get up to! Allons-y!

For the history lovers

Explore the Château de Cognac

Overlooking the Charente River, the Royal Castle of Cognac began life as a fortress built to halt Norman invasions in the 10th century, but in the 15th century it became a more peaceful place as one of the most beautiful stately homes in Europe. One of France’s most famous kings, Francois I, was born there in 1494 and despite this heritage it nearly fell into disrepute centuries later. That was until a certain Baron Otard stepped in, making the most of the robust walls to age the eaux-de-vie of his namesake Cognac House. The tour encompasses all of this and so much more including secret underground cellars, prison cells, Cognac production (and tasting) as well as stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture around every corner.

For bookings, try the official website here.

Caverns and caves

Situated a short drive east of Cognac is Caves Quéroy, a dramatic and magical cavern set into the surrounding forest. For under $10 for an adult, a tour guide escorts you through explaining the rich history of the surrounding area as well as all the stalagmites (or is it stalactites?) you can dream of. Further afield, there is the unforgettable Monolithic Church of Saint-Jean of Aubeterre to the south and the famous Caves of the Régulus – troglodyte caves cut into the cliff dating back millions of years.

There is no website for Caves Quéroy unfortunately, but Trip Advisor has a bit more info!

For the foodies

Amazing restaurants

One of the homes of luxury drinks was always going to have mastered gastronomy as well, wasn’t it? Unsurprisingly, top-class restaurants line the streets and river and, well, pretty much everywhere. L’atelier des quais provides one of the best views of medieval Cognac and there are no less than 7 Michelin starred restaurants too, from the traditional L’Essile to the modern La Poulpette to the creative geniuses La Ribaudiére (who we visit in the show!).

Sweet treats

Let’s not forget also about decadent chocolate makers like Chocolaterie Letuffe and mouth-watering boulangeries such as Maison Lemetayer that also treat Aidy and Helena on their travels. Chocolate and Cognac is an iconic pairing so stopping by somewhere like this to buy the perfect pairing for your Cognac is a must.

Place d’Armes

Inspired by the covered markets of the 19th century and designed by architect Victor Ballard, the iron-roofed Place d’Armes market is the liveliest in the whole region. Open Tuesday through to Sunday, it’s a food lover’s dream with mouth-watering selections of breads, pâté, organic produce, saucissons, seafood and most famously, that beautiful local cheese. Graze on the stalls with a glass of wine as you go, or take your buys to the nearby Charente River – glorious.

For the ACTIVE TRAVELLERS

Travel The Charente River

Cognac is the focal point of the region, but it’s small and easy to explore on foot so it’s worth making your way to some of the local towns and villages. Luckily, the stunning Charente river connects most of them! 147km of the river is navigable from Rochefort near the coast, to Angouleme inland. There are various places along the river where you can rent canoes, kayaks, pedalos or larger cruisers and if you’d rather stay on terra firma, bikes and e-scooter rental is common along the riverbank too and you can be at nearby Jarnac in under an hour.

For canoes in Cognac: try the Cognac Canoe Club
For boat hire in Cognac: try Les Canalous

Off-road biking and adventure sports

This part of France is also known for its picturesque cycling routes, particularly heading west out of Cognac towards the Atlantic. Whether you picture casually gliding through the French countryside, weaving through the forests or want to fully get your Tour de France on, there are routes for you. There are also adventure sports like treetop courses, zip lines, archery, orienteering races and horse riding at nature centres like Le Chambon Station, just a 20-minute drive from the centre of Cognac.

Explore cycle routes here!

For the relaxers

Jardin Public

When the sun is shining, there are few places better to kick back, relax, picnic, or read a book than this spot. Despite being in the centre of the town, it’s incredibly tranquil with historic buildings, beautifully maintained gardens, picturesque streams, fountains, and ducks ambling around for good measure. If you can’t pull together a glorious picnic from the shops and markets of the New Town then we’re sorry but there’s just no hope for you! 

Honestly, every corner of the Cognac commune is easy on the eye and the same for the countless smaller villages up and downstream. Loaded with history, beautiful drinks, mouth-watering food and rolling French countryside there is so much to see.

There are plenty of stunning places to stay in and around Cognac, but for the true five-star experience, we have to recommend the stately Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa. Converted from Monnet Cognac’s old cellar, it only opened in 2018. With its own elegant brasserie, expansive spa, jazz bar, lounge and Michelin-starred restaurant (Les Foudres)… it is more than fitting of the luxury brandy itself.

If you want to learn more about the inevitable star of the show though, check out Our Beginner’s Guide to Cognac here!

Grand Marnier Cocktails as featured in The Three Drinkers in Cognac

Episode Two of The Three Drinkers in Cognac sees Aidy, Helena and Eddy explore the second most famous drink of the region, Grand Marnier, pulling together some of their own cocktail creations in the process.

Aromatic dried orange peel is the heart of Grand Marnier, and more specifically Citrus Bigaradia, a delicately perfumed bitter orange picked before it has become fully ripe to gather those intense and highly concentrated oils. Distilled six times over and blended with sugar syrup and cognac and the gorgeous liqueur is complete!

So, which Grand Marnier cocktails did The Three Drinkers create to impress mixology extraordinaire Tiffanie Barriere?

The Grand Margarita

Showing them how it’s done first though, Tiffanie shook up the Grand Margarita. This is one of the most elegantly rounded cocktails you can make, with each ingredient bringing salty, sweet, bitter, and sour tastes. The Grand Marnier brings so much more depth than the usual syrup and the balance struck here is perfect, with the added texture from the Grand Marnier making every sip that bit more satisfying.

Ingredients
30ml Grand Marnier
30ml Premium Tequila
20ml Fresh Lime juice
Ice
Fresh lime to garnish
Salt for rim
Glass: Tumbler

Method
Cut and rub the lime around the rim of a glass. Add salt to a plate, tip the glass upside and rim with the salt. Next, combine the Grand Marnier, Tequila and lime juice in a shaker with ice and wet shake for 30 seconds. Strain into the tumbler over ice and garnish with a wheel of fresh lime.

Old Fashioned Persian (Eddy)

Introducing the winner of the mini-contest (sorry Aidy and Helena!), it’s Eddy who envisioned the orange flavouring of Grand Marnier with an Old Fashioned but wanted to add a touch of his Iranian heritage so included rose water and chai tea for this Old Fashioned Persian. There are light floral notes, warming spices and the silky sweet citrus of Grand Marnier typing everything together wonderfully.

Ingredients
30ml Grand Marnier
15ml Rosewater
15ml Chai tea infusion
Fresh lime
Orange for garnish
Glass: Tumbler

Method
Cut a slice of orange and rub it around the rim of a tumbler. Next, build the cocktail in the glass, combining the Grand Marnier, rosewater and chai over ice. Add a squeeze of lime and stir well. Garnish with an orange twist. 

Orange You Happy To See Me (Aidy)

Aidy set out to celebrate the region around him, combining not just the two of the most celebrated drinks of the region, but local fresh orange juice, local honey, and even local eggs. It’s the region of Cognac in a glass! 

Ingredients
50ml Cognac
25ml Grand Marnier
20ml Orange Juice
10ml Fresh Honey
1 Egg white
Glass: Martini glass

Method
Combine all ingredients bar the egg white into a shaker without ice and shake for 30 seconds. Next, add the egg white and ice and wet shake for another 30 seconds to activate the egg white. Strain into a Martini glass and garnish with orange peel. 

Le Grand St Clement (Helena)

Classic and simple, the gorgeous fresh fruit juice is apparent here straight away with the richer oomph from the Grand Marnier and Cognac following. Ever the oenophile, Helena tops up the glass with Champagne adding a crisp, bubbly and refreshing quality to an already delicious mix.

Ingredients
25ml Grand Marnier
15ml Fresh Lemon
15ml Fresh Orange
15 ml Cognac
Top up with Champagne
Glass: Chilled flute

Method
Combine the Grand Marnier, fruit juices and Cognac in a shaker with ice and shake for 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled flute half way then top up with Champagne and garnish with a thin orange slice.

Keep your eyes peeled for plenty more discoveries and cocktails from the series and if your wondering which cognac you should use, check this article out.

How Rap Fuelled the Cognac Comeback

In the 18th century, Cognac was so popular that smugglers literally could not meet demands for it, but as the 20th century rolled on, the luxurious drink fell out of favour and became a symbol of a bygone era. Even in France, whisky had replaced it as the king of sippers.

Slowly, it became known as the drink of old men, conjuring up images of stuffy clubs, dusty drinks cabinets and a kind of classical luxury that appealed to fewer and fewer people. As a result of this narrowing and ageing demographic, the 1990s brought economic issues to cognac houses and the surrounding region. Vines were being replaced, and a surplus supply filled the city’s cellars.

The 21st century looked bleak for cognac, that was until the world of rap and hip-hop got involved! Jay-Z’s, Can’t Knock the Hustle in 1991 was the first to mention a cognac brand by name, rapping, ‘sipping Remy on the rocks’ in reference to Remy Martin.  As the ‘bling era’ of rap dawned, the historic association of cognac with royalty and luxury set it on the path to being namechecked in plenty of other songs too.

In 2001, Busta Rhymes released Pass the Courvoisier II with P. Diddy and Pharrell… the latter of which who would later become an ambassador for Remy Martin. It is estimated that this song alone boosted Courvoisier sales by 30%!

2Pac, Snoop Dogg, you name it, they were all referencing cognac and cognac brands at the turn of the millennium and over a decade or so, the fortunes of the region had completely turned on its head.

Fans of American rap flocked to buy Hennessy and other brands, and these sales spikes spread across Europe too. New mixers like Coca-Cola and pineapple juice were popular, and rather than turn their nose up at this new image of cognac, it was embraced by the industry. To this day, the relationship exists with Martell announcing rapper Quavo as their brand ambassador in 2018.

Demand has never been higher for this historic drink, and if you want to learn more about the rich journey of cognac and the beautiful city itself, check out our Complete Beginners Guide here, or even better, tune in to The Three Drinkers in Cognac!

The Most Beautiful Distilleries to Visit in Cognac

Cognac is a simply stunning part of France that we explore in The Three Drinkers in Cognac. There is so much to see and do and although we’ve covered everything except the drinks in our guide here, it’s now time to cover what the region is most famous for – its distilleries. Let’s begin with some of the amazing locations we visit in the Amazon Prime series!

AS FEATURED IN THE THREE DRINKERS IN COGNAC

Courvoisier

The opening minutes of the first episode sees The Three Drinkers visit Domaine Guilloteau to see the operational production process, a picturesque winery owned by the iconic Courvoisier. The public attraction however is The Maison Courvoisier, the famous 19th-century house in the heart of Jarnac. The 90-minute tour covers the nuances of distillation, ageing and blending, Napoleonic history, local geology, a trip down into the cellars, and of course, a tasting of the delicious end product itself, in VS, VSOP and XO styles.

More information here

Rémy Martin

Not only can the historic Grande Champagne vineyards of Rémy Martin be seen in Episode Three, but also the tasting room of the house and even ‘Paradis’ in Episode Four. Dating back to 1724, it is the only cognac house founded by a winemaker (no prizes for guessing the name) and pioneered the region’s first wine cooperative – Alliance Fine Champagne. Their award-winning visitor experience is varied with plenty of different tour options, from train visits around the elegant estate to the magical Infinity Experience. One thing is certain however, you will see how this legendary liquid is made from grape to glass and you will taste from that glass at the end.

More information here

Grand Marnier

Grand Marnier is the other best-known liquid in the area, and Episode Two explores its stunning home – the 17th-century Château de Bourg-Charente. Since 1921, the family has used it to store, age and blend their Cognacs but over the last decade, expansion of the site means it is also where the other most important ingredient in Grand Marnier is distilled – dried orange peel. If you want to know more about this incredible product then watch the show or check out our guide here!

More information here

Audemus Spirits

Episode Four of The Three Drinkers in Cognac shows the charming Audemus Spirits helping Aidy and Helena with their own gin. Famed for its inventive and renowned Pink Pepper gin among others, this one-of-a-kind distillery is also a living room. That’s right, a far cry from the majestic Cognac houses, this is a much smaller operation hence there are no public tours or anything unfortunately. Keep your eyes peeled on the website though for events that do pop up, and to peruse the unique blends Audemus produces.

More information here

MORE BEAUTIFUL VISITS

Au Coeur du Château - VSOP Baron Otard & VSOP D'Ussé

For a visit that combines history and cognac, it doesn’t get much better than the Château Royal de Cognac. Overlooking the stunning Charente, this castle began as a fortress a thousand years ago before evolving into a stately home. Catching the eye of Baron Otard, the site was transformed into a formidable Cognac house. So, not only will you see how the robust castle walls help produce delicious eaux-de-vie, but there are also secret cellars, old prison cells and eye-catching Gothic and Renaissance architecture to keep you entertained.

More information here

Hine

Deep in bustling Jarnac, Hine’s tours have developed a top reputation for clearly explaining the nuances of cognac production in layman’s terms. Not only are they producing some of the most unique cognac blends out there (such as their rum-esque VSOP), but their super engaging, visual and entertaining tour and exhibits leave you knowing the process inside out. They have a few different options when exploring their riverside house at 16 quai de l’Orangerie so just see which suits you best!

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Hennessy Les Visites

Hennessy is another of the Big Four Cognac Houses, and one of the flagship brands of the drink’s cool comeback. The 90-minute tour is the complete package, with audio-visual presentation, art, boat ride, guided tasting with side dishes, ancient cellars and of course, every Hennessy bottle made including one-off rarities. Perched right beside the Charente and with the bridge in the background, you are guaranteed to feel the prestige of Hennessy before you even set foot on dry land.

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If you want more things to do in and around Cognac, check out our other Things to Do here (you’d be amazed at what you can get up to!).

What is XO Cognac and What Should I Try?

With The Three Drinkers in Cognac exploring the stunning liquid that is cognac as well as its picturesque namesake surroundings, we thought it was about time we went into detail about what those letters on cognac and other brandy bottles mean. We’ve covered VS and VSOP cognac before and now it’s time for XO!

What is XO Cognac?

Whereas, VS (Very Special) is the youngest age statement of cognac and means no liquid in the bottle is younger than two years old, XO Cognac means Extra Old, which in numerical terms means that the liquid has been aged for a minimum of ten years. Some parts of the blend may be older, but ten is the minimum.

Interestingly, this actually changed in 2016 when six years used to be the XO minimum, so if you buy an older XO, you might find that there is in fact liquid younger than ten years old.

How Does XO Cognac differ to VSOP and XXO Cognac?

VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) bottles are quite significantly younger than XO, requiring at least four years of aging. XO (Extra Old) is the next official category along, with ten years of aging needed, and beyond that there is XXO (yep, you guessed it - Extra Extra Old) that must be fourteen years of age.

Cognac masters use different eaux-de-vie of various ages to add different characteristics to the blend, so even though VS and VSOP are more commonly used for cocktails and mixes, it is not as simple as ‘the older the better’. Some VSOP will contain eaux-de-vie that are mostly XO, but may include some much younger liquid for vibrance, thereby categorising it as VSOP.

There are all kinds of unofficial age statements and other terms like Napoleon and hors d’âge so check out our full breakdown of the age statements here (including top recommendations from each!).

So many parts of the production process affect the end product of cognac, but generally the longer cognac sits in the barrel, the richer, nuttier, and more complex it becomes.  In the world of cognac, there is a relationship between age and price, with VS usually the most affordable, and XXO and beyond commanding the biggest price tags.

How is XO Cognac drunk?

Whilst the bright and fiery youth of VS blends lend themselves to cocktails, the nuance and complexity of an XO is likely to be lost mixed with such strong ingredients. It would still be delicious, particularly in a simple Highball, but for the money, it’s probably best enjoyed on its own.

When we say on its own, we mean either neat as an aperitif, or with a few drops of water as some drinkers enjoy. This, like a little ice, dilutes the cognac slightly for a smoother experience and often reveals new aromas such as fruity, floral, and/or spicy notes. If the XO is good quality (like below), you will want to slowly sip and find your way around the liquid and its layers without intensely flavoured mixers… but as is the golden rule with drinking, enjoy it in whatever way you enjoy it!

Which XO Cognac should I try?

Courvoisier XO

A timeless classic with layers of complexity from aged eaux-de-vie from all across the Cognac growing regions. Oak-y throughout, the nose of apricot opens out into silky smooth berries with delectable orange to finish. This is a serial award-winning XO for a reason!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £114.95 // US $189.99

Rémy Martin XO

This Grande and Petite Champagne blend is masterful from grape to glass. Vanilla, caramel and warm spice weave harmoniously in a rich and sophisticated XO. This alongside a few squares of dark chocolate is a dream.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £174.99 // US $249.99

Prunier Tres Vieille XO

Unbelievably soft, this Prunier Tres Vieille XO fills the mouth with elegant richness, including some more unusual leather and white pepper notes alongside a tarte tatin reminiscence to die for.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £170

Hine Antique XO Cognac

This is a gorgeously soothing XO with indulgence and subtlety. 40 different cognacs aged over a decade create layers upon layers of spicy pepper, fruits rolled in cinnamon and perfumed spice.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £163 // US $234.99

Martell XO Cognac

Dating back to 1715, Martell is the oldest cognac house, and this XO radiates those generations of expertise. Mellow and soft in the mouth, it’s fragrant with citrus, walnut and blossom and every sip feels like a treat (exactly what you want from an XO).

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £182.99 // US $264.99

Maxime Trijol XO

Spiced orange and caramel swirl together in this gem of an XO that also provides pretty impressive value. It’s dry, fruity, and lined with vanilla butterscotch for complete indulgence. Many cognac aficionados return to this as their regular sipper!

Size: 700ml       
ABV: 40%
Find here: £102.99

Frapin Château de Fontpinot XO Cognac

Winner of the prestigious Master award for Single Cru XO in 2018, this Grand Champagne blend is moreishly fruity and floral with terrific poise. Subtle nuts and oaky vanilla round off a characterful and distinct XO that’s bursting with flavour.

Size: 700ml       
ABV: 41%
Find here: £134.99

Jean Fillioux Grande Reserve XO Cognac

At a lip-smacking 44%, this is a bold and powerful single Cru XO that is masterfully balanced. Oak, vanilla, and orange all work with one another and for under £100, you just don’t get XO cognac much better.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £91.75 // US $138.99

For more information about the rich world of cognac, check out the Beginner’s Guide (or The Three Drinkers in Cognac of course!)