REGION: Cognac

The Estèves are independent producers in the Petite Champagne, respected throughout the region. Much of that esteem comes from their skill and approachability, but true reverence comes from their adherence to tradition and their marvelous collection of young, middle-aged, and pre-phylloxera Cognacs.

The Dudognon family has produced Cognac in the small town of Lignieres Sonneville in Grande Champagne since 1776. Using only Ugni Blanc from their best parcels of land, their spirits contain no additives and represent some of the finest Cognac in the region.

A blender’s-select range of Cognacs from Maison Hardy, Maison Rouge pays tribute to the family’s history of storing Cognac in a red-tiled barn in the Charentais town of Roumazières on the way to a “paradis”—known only to the family—where exceptional casks of eaux-de-vie were rumored to rest.

The Pasquet family’s 7.5-hectare vineyard is nestled in the tiny township of Éraville, in prestigious Grande Champagne. The property has been producing Cognac since 1730. The broad Pasquet lineup ranges from terrific 'starter' Cognacs to the rarest of the rare, not to mention delicious apéritifs.