For visitors to Poitou-Charentes a must-do is a cognac tour or cognac-tasting tour around one of the famous firms or ‘maisons’ as they are called. And of course to have a taste of cognac at the same time! See more information here.
We would also recommend a visit to one of the many excellent small local producers that can be found through the cognac area. Many speak English, and while summer is the peak period for public visits, there are those that are open all year round. The tourist offices in the cognac areas will have a booklet called ‘Les Bonness Adresses du Cognac’ which is a detailed list of those offering tours, with information on whether they speak English.
For more on the history of cognac, head to the Musée des Arts du cognac (Maco) in Cognac which does its bit for the local industry that made the town famous—and wealthy—by housing a permanent exhibition on the history of the drink and how it’s made.
If you’re looking to buy, then browse at the 400-strong selection on offer at Cognathèque, also in Cognac.
Les Bonnes Chauffes
Each year, during the months of December to February winegrowers and distillers throw open their doors to visitors over the weekend for free distillery visits plus tastings of cognac and of pineau. A number of restaurants also get involved with menus based on local products and of course cognac and pineau—some also put on musical events to create a real feeling of fun and festivity. For a full list of participating growers and their opening hours, and participating restaurants see www.cognacetapes.com.