| The six viticultural areas The grape variety selected to produce white wines intended only for the production of Cognac is usually the 'Ugni Blanc', chosen for its late maturing and ability to resist disease. Some 'Folle Blanche' and 'Colombard' grapes are also used. These grapes yield a thin white wine, considered good only for Cognac.The harvests are usually carried out during the month of October. Immediately after harvesting, the grapes are pressed in traditional horizontal plate or in pneumatic presses. Continuous presses, using the Archimedes' screw press, are not allowed. The juice is left to ferment immediately. After three weeks of natural fermentation, without using any additives such as sugar, the acidic wines have a weak volume of alcohol, approximately 8%. At this time, they are perfectly suited for distillation.
Back |  | | Grande Champagne lies at the very heart of the Cognac region. It produces the most celebrated eaux-de-vie, very light and fine, with an essentially floral bouquet. They require a long aging period in order to attain their maturity. The town of Segonzac prides itself in being the 'Capital of Grande Champagne'. Petite Champagne describes a semi-circle surrounding Grande Champagne. Its eaux-de-vie also have a floral bouquet; issued however from soils more influenced by the maritime climate, they are considered to lack the finesse of Grande Champagne. Only the Cognac made with a blend of Grande and Petite Champagne, and containing no less than 50% of Grande Champagne, may bear the name 'Fine Champagne'. Situated to the north of Cognac, Borderies is the smallest of the six crus. They produce eaux-de-vie rated very highly by some brands of Cognac: particularly fine, smooth, with a slight violet and nutty aroma, they enrich and smoothen other eaux-de-vie once blended. They require a slightly shorter aging period than those of Grande Champagne. The Bons Bois lie at the outer boundary of the Cognac area , while the Fins Bois complete a loop around the initial three crus, leaving them more exposed to the ocean climate. Their Cognacs are rounded, smooth and mature faster; Their aroma recalls the smell of freshly pressed grapes. The Bois Ordinaires' sandy earth borders the sea, giving a roughness to their fast maturing, fruity eaux-de-vie. |
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