Cognac Country: Behind the Scenes at Maison Rémy Martin

Discover the history, savoir-faire and terroir behind the world-famous cognac on a tour of Maison Rémy Martin…

For three centuries, guided by an unwavering faith in the potential of Grande and Petite Champagne, the two historic terroirs located in the heart of Cognac- Rémy Martin has crafted exceptional cognacs. Founded in 1724 by Rémy Martin, a 29-year-old winegrower from Rouillac, this family firm unites the expertise of winegrowers, coopers, distillers and cellar masters, whose savoir-faire has been passed down through generations. And you can go along and taste the magic for yourself.

The Maison, which celebrated its 300th anniversary last year, offers exclusive tours, tastings and immersive experiences that showcase the history, craftsmanship and terroir that define these world-famous cognacs. At the historic House of Rémy Martin in Cognac, you can learn about the defining moments that forged the company’s worldwide reputation and explore its commitment to sustainable viticulture and greener distillation methods.
For those interested in the art of mixology, the Rémy Martin Cocktail Masterclass provides an interactive and creative experience. It includes a tour of the historic house and a guided lesson in crafting refined cocktails using Rémy Martin cognacs. Paired with gourmet snacks, the class allows participants to appreciate the versatility of cognac in contemporary mixology.

For a sensory experience centred on the renowned XO range, try the Opulence Masterclass, which offers a guided tour followed by an indulgent food and cognac pairing. Sample Rémy Martin XO with freshly baked baguettes, a nod to French savoir-vivre, or enjoy one of the region’s iconic specialities, such as canelés de Bordeaux.

Fine dining and cognac

For true connoisseurs, the LOUIS XIII Introduction includes a tour of the historic house and a tasting of this exquisite spirit, accompanied by a refined dish.

An even more exclusive tour. The Experience takes guests to Le Domaine du Grollet, the heart of LOUIS XIII production, where they will enjoy a fine-dining lunch, vineyard walks and two tastings of this legendary cognac. This seven-hour experience is the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship. Beyond the historic estate, Rémy Martin offers a deeper look into its production process with tours in Juillac-le-Coq and Merpins. The From the Vineyard to the Distillery tour takes guests through the picturesque Grande Champagne vineyards, culminating in a distillery visit and a tasting of Tercet cognac. Or, if you’re feeling active, the Bike Ride Through the Vineyard experience offers guided electric bike tours with gourmet breaks, allowing visitors to discover the landscape that shapes Rémy Martin’s unique flavour profile.

A tour of the cellars

Visitors can also explore the Merpins production site, where the Discover the Estate by Train tour reveals the intricate process of ageing and blending cognac. This tour provides an in-depth look at the extensive cellars and concludes with a tasting of Rémy Martin VSOP in cocktail form and 1738 Accord Royal paired with gourmet snacks. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Rémy Martin at Lunchtime package offers an elegant four-hour journey combining an historical tour, cognac tastings and a refined lunch at the Club, the estate’s exclusive table d’hôtes.

Little wonder then that last year, Maison Rémy Martin was awarded the People’s Choice Award in the Great Wine Capitals Network’s Best Of Wine Tourism competition. This accolade followed the regional Best Of Wine Tourism awards in Bordeaux, where the Maison won gold in the Art & Culture category as well as the international award for the Bordeaux/Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

Whichever tour you choose when you visit. whether discovering the art of blending, savouring rare cognacs, or enjoying a gourmet experience, it’s sure to leave you with a greater understanding of the craftsmanship and history behind this legendary Maison.

www.remymartin.com/visit-us

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Lead photo credit : REMY MARTIN HISTORICAL HOUSE (crédit Maison Rémy Martin)