Exclusive Shore Excursion: Discover Cognac, the Heart of France’s Brandy Heritage
Begin Your Journey with Seamless Pickup in Bordeaux
Start your adventure with a personalized pickup from your cruise ship at Bordeaux City or Bassens Port. Meet your English-speaking guide, an expert in the region and its iconic brandy. After a brief overview of the day’s itinerary, settle into your comfortable air-conditioned premium minivan, and begin your journey to the picturesque Cognac region in Charente.
Travel in Comfort and Style
Your day trip to Cognac is conducted in one of our spacious premium minivans, designed for small groups and ultimate comfort. Each vehicle features an onboard P/A system, ensuring you won’t miss any of your guide’s fascinating commentary about the history, production, and culture of Cognac.
Explore the World of Cognac Brandy
Venture to the town of Cognac, situated along the tranquil Charente River, a region synonymous with the production of one of the world’s most renowned brandies for over 300 years. This exclusive full-day excursion includes visits to two Cognac distilleries—one globally recognized, such as Hennessy, Rémy Martin, or Camus, and one family-owned estate.
At each distillery, you’ll:
- Dive into the history and legacy of the brand.
- Learn about the grape varieties, distillation methods, and the meticulous aging process that creates the signature flavors of Cognac.
- Compare production scales and methods, from the grandeur of large-scale operations to the intimate charm of small family-run establishments.
- Enjoy guided tastings of multiple Cognac expressions, highlighting the distinct profiles of each producer.
Savor Local Cuisine with a Regional Lunch
Between distillery visits, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (at own expense), where you’ll sample traditional dishes paired with regional wines. This culinary interlude offers the perfect complement to your Cognac discoveries.
Dive Deeper into the Cognac Region
Gain insight into the six Cognac production zones, including the prestigious Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus. Learn about the unique qualities of the Ugni Blanc grape, the primary variety used in Cognac production, and how its thin, acidic wine is transformed into the exquisite spirit through careful distillation and aging.
