Tasting Bourgoin Cognac the real winegrower’s cognac

An Authentic Cognac Experience with Bourgoin in Cognac

The Tasting Bourgoin Cognac tour offers a truly genuine look into the world of winegrower’s cognac. Priced at $46.34 per person and lasting about one hour, this experience is ideal for those interested in exploring natural, unfiltered cognacs crafted by a family with deep roots in the region. The tour starts at 14 Rue du Puits in Saint-Saturnin, with a maximum of 30 travelers, making for an intimate and engaging visit.

What makes this tour stand out is Frédéric Bourgoin’s approach—a terroirist winemaker and alchemist who converts his 25-hectare vineyard to organic agriculture. Since establishing his bottled brand in 2015, Bourgoin’s spirits have gained recognition, now gracing over 150 Michelin-starred restaurants in France, including the Elysée Palace. The experience offers a rare chance to taste authentic, natural cognacs that contain no added colors or sugars and are unfiltered—a true departure from commercial offerings.

Key Points

• Authentic winegrower’s cognac crafted by Frédéric Bourgoin
• Price: $46.34 per person for a one-hour guided tasting
• Location: Begins at 14 Rue du Puits, Saint-Saturnin, France
• Highlights: Visit authentic aging cellars and distillery with technical explanations
• Tasting includes multiple cognacs and related products, such as Grape Brandy (2018), Double-Lie (2010), and Brut de Fût (1998)
• Family-run experience emphasizing traditional methods and soil knowledge
• Limited to 30 guests, ensuring a personalized introduction to Bourgoin’s spirits

Meeting at the Heart of Cognac: The Starting Point

The tour begins at 3:00 pm at 14 Rue du Puits in Saint-Saturnin. This central meeting point allows for easy access via public transportation and is within walking distance of local amenities. The mobile ticket format simplifies entry, and service animals are permitted, making the experience accessible for all travelers over 18.

Upon arrival, the Bourgoin family warmly welcomes participants. The overall setting combines a modern scenography with the authentic charm of Bourgoin’s traditional distillery and aging cellar, which remains in active use. This blend of heritage and contemporary presentation creates an engaging backdrop for the visit.

Discovering Bourgoin’s Organic Vineyard and Soil Approach

Frédéric Bourgoin’s 25-hectare vineyard is at the core of his winemaking philosophy. He is committed to Organic Agriculture conversion, which influences every aspect of his spirits. During the tour, visitors learn how the soil and geology impact the flavor profiles of the cognacs, emphasizing terroir’s importance.

Bourgoin’s wine map and growing techniques are explained, providing insight into how the soil composition and geological features shape the unique characteristics of his natural spirits. This focus on authenticity distinguishes Bourgoin’s approach from more commercial cognacs.

Visiting the Authentic Aging Cellar and Distillery

A highlight of the experience is passing through Bourgoin’s authentic aging cellar, which is still in operation. Here, the cognacs mature naturally, with no artificial interventions, allowing visitors to appreciate the true depth and nuance of each spirit.

Next, the distillery tour explains the distillation process used by Bourgoin, highlighting his commitment to traditional methods. The technical explanations provide a clear understanding of how double distillation and minimal intervention contribute to the character of his spirits.

Tasting the Unique Bourgoin Cognacs and Products

The main event is the tasting session, where four key products are sampled:

• Grape Brandy 2018 (38% vol.)
• Cognac Double-Lie 2010 (45% vol.)
• Cognac Brut de Fût 1998 (53% vol.)
• Pineau des Charentes White (17% vol.)

Alongside these, visitors enjoy Verjuice (pH 2.5), Grape Sugar (65 brix), and Grapeseed Oil. The cognacs are unassembled, unsweetened, and free of added coloring or filtration, offering a pure and authentic tasting experience. The nuances of each spirit are explained, making it easier to appreciate the differences between young and aged cognacs.

The Natural and Family-Driven Approach

Frédéric Bourgoin’s storytelling shines during the tour, as he shares his passion for producing spirits that honor tradition while exploring innovative ideas outside the typical category. The family’s commitment is evident in their respect for the land, their minimal intervention approach, and their focus on natural products.

This authenticity resonates with visitors seeking a genuine connection to Cognac’s heritage and a taste of spirits that reflect the true essence of the terroir.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour lasts approximately one hour, with no snacks included, so visitors may wish to plan accordingly. The price of $46.34 offers a balanced value for such an in-depth, personalized look into Bourgoin’s spirits.

The maximum group size of 30 enhances the ability to ask questions and engage directly with Frédéric or his family members. The location’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for travelers staying in or near Cognac.

The Review and Final Word on Bourgoin’s Cognac Tour

The 100% authentic approach by Frédéric Bourgoin makes this tour a must-visit for spirits enthusiasts seeking a personalized and educational experience in Cognac. The focus on natural, unfiltered spirits provides a refreshing alternative to more commercialized cognacs, appealing especially to those interested in terroir-driven craftsmanship.

While the one-hour duration limits extensive tastings, the quality and depth of the experience compensate fully. Visitors are left with a better understanding of organic viticulture, distillation techniques, and the importance of soil and geology in shaping spirits.

This tour is most suited for adventurous drinkers who appreciate authenticity and family-led production and are eager to taste truly natural spirits that reflect the land.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, only people over 18 years old can consume alcoholic beverages on this tour.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately one hour.

What is included in the price?
The guided visit and tasting of multiple spirits are included; snacks are not.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Where does the tour start?
At 14 Rue du Puits, Saint-Saturnin, France.

Is the tour accessible by public transport?
Yes, the location is near public transportation.

What are the spirits sampled during the tasting?
Grape Brandy 2018, Cognac Double-Lie 2010, Brut de Fût 1998, and Pineau des Charentes White.

Are the spirits filtered or colored?
No, Bourgoin’s spirits are unfiltered and without added colorings or sugars.

Who is the guide?
The experience is guided by a member of the Bourgoin family, with Frédéric Bourgoin leading the tour.

Is this tour a good value?
Given its focus on authentic, family-produced spirits and personalized access, the $46.34 price offers good value for spirits aficionados.

This Bourgoin Cognac tasting provides a rare opportunity to explore truly natural spirits in a personal, family-run setting, ideal for those wanting an honest glimpse into Cognac’s terroir-driven craft.