Private Tour to Cognac From Saintes, Angouleme (From Paris)

Exploring the renowned Cognac region has never been more captivating. This private tour from Saintes or Angoulême whisks travelers on a delightful 9-hour journey, immersing them in the intricate process of Cognac production. Under the guidance of a certified expert, visitors will uncover the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship behind iconic houses like Martell and Rémy Martin. But the true allure lies in the opportunity to savor exquisite tastings, wander through picturesque vineyards, and indulge in a regional lunch – all while uncovering the stories that make this corner of France truly extraordinary. Prepare to embark on an experience that will forever enhance your appreciation for the world-renowned spirit.

Key Points

• This private tour takes visitors from Saintes or Angouleme to explore the renowned Cognac region, including visits to famous Cognac houses like Martell and Rémy Martin.
• The 9-hour tour is led by a certified expert-guide who provides insights into the history, production methods, and traditions of Cognac.
• Guests can witness the distillation process, taste unique family Cognacs from local craft distillers, and enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch at a local vineyard restaurant.
• The tour includes sightseeing in the scenic Cognac vineyards and the historic center of Cognac, with its medieval and Renaissance architecture.
• The tour is priced at Kč15,676 for up to 2 people and offers a flexible booking option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private tour to Cognac from Saintes or Angouleme (departing from Paris) is priced at Kč15,676 for a group of up to 2 people, with a duration of 9 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors can book their spot without payment upfront and pay later.

The tour includes visits to famous Cognac houses like Martell or Rémy Martin, as well as meetings with craft distillers to sample their family Cognacs.

Scenic views, sightseeing in the Cognac region, and a 1.5-hour lunch at a local restaurant are also part of the experience.

The tour is led by a certified Cognac expert-guide who provides insights into the production process and local history.

Itinerary and Locations

The tour begins at either the Gare SNCF or the Boutique SNCF, where participants are picked up for their journey to the Cognac region. The main activities of the day include:

Activity	Description
Visit famous Cognac house	Tour the production facilities and sample renowned Cognac brands like Martell or Rémy Martin.
Meet craft distiller	Engage with local, family-owned distilleries and taste their unique Cognac expressions.
Scenic views and sightseeing	Discover the picturesque landscapes and architecture of the Cognac vineyards.
Lunch	Enjoy a 1.5-hour meal at a local restaurant, sampling regional cuisine and wines.

The tour concludes with drop-off at the original starting locations, allowing participants to further explore the area or return to their accommodations.

Main Activities

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Cognac production, seeing the rich history and time-honored traditions of this renowned spirit.

The tour begins with a visit to a famous Cognac house, such as Martell or Rémy Martin, where they’ll witness the intricate distillation process and sample the exquisite end products.

Next, they’ll meet a local craft distiller, tasting unique family Cognacs and learning about the meticulous techniques passed down through generations.

Sightseeing in the scenic Cognac region, including its top vineyards, provides a breathtaking backdrop to the experience.

The tour culminates with a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch at a local vineyard restaurant, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region.

Lunch Experience

After exploring the production process and sampling the artisanal Cognacs, visitors enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch at a local vineyard restaurant, where they can savor the flavors of the Cognac region.

The restaurant offers a carefully curated menu showcasing the finest local ingredients, expertly paired with the area’s renowned Cognac.

Theres some good regional specialties like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, or Cognac-infused desserts as they take in the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards.

This lunch provides a delightful opportunity to take in the culinary traditions that have made Cognac a gastronomic destination.

With ample time to relax and enjoy the meal, visitors can further appreciate the nuances of the Cognac experience.

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Expert-Led Tour

Guided by a certified cognac expert, the private tour offers an immersive exploration of the cognac-making process, from the lush vineyards to the distinguished distilleries.

The expert-led experience provides rich insights into the history, production methods, and traditions of this renowned French spirit.

Guests can expect to:

• Uncover the intricate steps of cognac distillation, from grape harvesting to barrel aging.

• Learn about the unique terroir and microclimates that contribute to the distinctive flavors.

• Engage with local craft distillers and discover their familial expertise.

• Savor a guided tasting of various cognac expressions, exploring the nuances of each.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for the art and craftsmanship behind this iconic beverage.

Cognac Production Process

The cognac production process begins with the careful selection and harvesting of Ugni Blanc grapes, the primary varietal used in this renowned French spirit. These grapes are meticulously tended to in the lush vineyards of the Cognac region, where the unique terroir and microclimate lend distinctive flavors to the final product.

Once harvested, the grapes are fermented, distilled, and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years, though many producers opt for longer maturation periods to achieve greater complexity and depth of character.

The art of blending various eau-de-vie, or distillates, is also critical, as master blenders masterfully combine different casks to create the signature cognac profiles sought after by connoisseurs.

Local History and Architecture

Beyond the renowned cognac production process, the Cognac region also boasts a rich tapestry of local history and captivating architectural gems that provide a window into the area’s storied past.

During the tour, visitors can expect to:

• Explore the charming historic center of Cognac, with its well-preserved medieval structures and Renaissance-era buildings.

• Admire the majestic Château de Cognac, a former royal residence that now houses one of the world’s most prestigious cognac houses.

• Discover the town’s quaint cobblestone streets lined with elegant townhouses and lively market squares.

• Visit the iconic Saint-Léger Church, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture dating back to the 11th century.

• Gain insights into the region’s influential role in French history, from its strategic location to its significant contributions to the development of cognac.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Consistently, visitors rave about the exceptional value for money provided by this private tour to Cognac, awarding it a flawless 5/5 rating across various criteria.

Reviewers praise the tour’s safety, with one guest highlighting the driver’s skilled navigation and adherence to road regulations.

The service provided by the knowledgeable expert-guide also earns high marks, as they skillfully navigate visitors through the cognac production process while sharing insightful local history and architecture.

While the tour’s organization is commended, a few guests note minor room for improvement in this area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Cognac Are Available for Tasting?

The tour includes tastings of various cognac products, such as the signature blends from famous houses like Martell and Rémy Martin. Visitors can also sample cognacs from local craft distilleries, experiencing the range of flavors and styles produced in the Cognac region.

Can We Visit a Cooperage or Oak Barrel Workshop?

The tour typically includes a visit to a cooperage or oak barrel workshop, where participants can learn about the traditional craftsmanship involved in creating the oak barrels essential for aging cognac. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights into the cognac production process.

Is It Possible to Purchase Bottles of Cognac on the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase bottles of cognac on the tour. The tour includes visits to a famous cognac house and a craft distillery, where visitors can sample and buy various cognac products to take home.

Are There Any Opportunities to Meet Local Artisans or Chefs?

Yes, the tour offers opportunities to meet local craft distillers and families with generational expertise in cognac production. Guests can engage with these artisans and learn about their traditional techniques and family histories.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Nearby Villages or Chateaux?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional nearby villages or chateaux. The expert guide can tailor the itinerary based on the client’s interests, allowing for a more personalized and enriched experience of the Cognac region.

Recap

This private Cognac tour from Saintes or Angouleme provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the rich heritage of this renowned French spirit.

Highlights include guided visits to prestigious Cognac houses, tastings, and a delightful regional lunch.

Led by a certified expert, the tour promises to enhance one’s appreciation of the Cognac production process and the local history and architecture.

With positive customer reviews, this tour offers a comprehensive and memorable Cognac-themed adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: