CHATEAU DE COGNAC

The castle where Francis I was born in the centre of Cognac now houses the famous Otard house, founded at the end of the 18th century by the Baron of the same name. This place steeped in history is magical and its visit is a great moment. The castle has survived more than seven centuries and keeps scars but also the richness of each era. It is a disparate mosaic of rooms, shadows and lights. The cellar, closed by walls more than two metres thick, keeps a constant temperature whatever the season and is bathed in a permanent humidity which ensures ideal ageing of the eaux-de-vie. A recessed room, the Paradise, hides the most precious eaux-de-vie behind a heavy grille. A beautiful exhibition also retraces the history of the brand. The visit ends in the boutique where all the Otard's products are displayed. For the record, Baron Jean-Baptiste Otard returned to his lands after being imprisoned and sentenced to death in 1793. Freed by the people, he settles in the royal castle of Cognac in 1795 and creates his own cognac. He became mayor of the village, and was promoted Knight of the Legion of Honour. His heart lies in the church of Saint-Léger. The castle reveals a treasure for the conservation of cognac. Otard sold about 1.5 million bottles a year, 90% of which were exported : Belgium, Great Britain, Far East, Malaysia... Baron Otard cognacs have long been known for their sweet character, balanced by floral aromas. The House of Otard offers you the pleasure of appreciating, for example, its V.S., ideal as a base for cocktails or as an aperitif. Its golden colour hides intense and fruity aromas. Its VSOP, elegant and very fine, hides floral, linden leaf or tobacco aromas. Rather round, it offers a noble character. Baron Otard Extra 1795 cognac, long rested in casks, offers a bouquet of different flavours of dried fruit with hints of orange. It is rich with the softness of the Grande Champagne region, hence its exceptional and very rich quality. Virtual visit on the website.