Hennessey Distillery

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Picture a day filled with adventures in and around the quaint medieval town of Cognac with a tour and tasting at the world-famous Hennessey cognac distillery. You'll explore the countryside via motor coach and the Gironde River Estuary via ferry boat. With lunch at a local restaurant this roundtrip excursion from your ship in Le Verdon is sure to satisfy every taste.

Depart the pier for the ferry terminal where you'll embark for a scenic boat ride through Western Europe's largest estuary. Discover this rich riverine habitat dotted with islands and bordered by sun-drenched vineyards. Crossing the Gironde River, you'll disembark in the city of Royan where the journey continues by coach to your featured destination: Cognac. This pretty little town on the banks of the Charente River brims with sandy beaches, bobbing sailboats and enticing seaside hotels. It also boasts a 13th century château where French King François 1st was born.

Another scenic river crossing, this time aboard the Hennessy river boat brings you to the distillery premises where you'll immerse yourself in the heady world of luxury brandy. With the help of your expert guide, you'll delve into the finer points of cognac production. The main grape variety is Ugni blanc mostly "Folle Blanche" and "Colombard" which are slow ripening varieties resistant to disease and possessing a high level of acidity and a generally low alcohol content.

Your tour begins with a visit of the cellars where you will discover the secrets of the unique swan-shaped still that is used in the double-distillation production of cognac brandy. You'll learn how the Cellar Master controls the length of time the Cognac is matured in oak barrels and how the "Eau de Vie," a variety of grapes from different locations and vintages, is expertly blended to produce the signature taste of the house.

Then you'll experience fine Hennessy Cognac for yourself. Judge the spirit with your eyes observing transparency, color and viscosity. Then lift the glass and swirl the elixir to release its full bouquet finally assessing its taste and feel in your mouth. The Hennessy cognac distillery was founded by Irishman Richard Hennessy in 1765 and now you have the distinct privilege of experiencing history in a glass!

Leaving the distillery behind with a Hennessy souvenir or a bottle or two of cognac tucked under your arm, you'll travel to a delightful interlude in the city of Cognac. Surrounded by cobbled lanes and Romanesque churches, you'll make your way to a charming local restaurant where you'll relax and enjoy a meal of renowned French cuisine.

Re-boarding your motorcoach, your journey continues on land to Royan and by ferry to Le Verdon. Arriving at your ship, you'll look back on your day in France as one brimming with history and culture and blessed with a unique joie de vivre.

Special Notes:

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