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Fine de Champagne Cognac
Fine de Champagne is a top-quality cognac, renowned for its refinement and exceptional taste. Contrary to popular belief, Fine de Champagne has nothing to do with Champagne sparkling wine. It's actually a blend of eau-de-vie from the two premier crus of the Cognac region: Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. In this article, we take a look at the history and production of this exceptional cognac, highlighting the particularities of its terroir, specific production techniques and ageing process.
The Origin of Fine Champagne
The history of Fine de Champagne dates back to the 19th century, when the Charentais geologist and paleontologist Henri Coquand carried out studies on the soils of the Cognac region. His research led to the delimitation of the different cognac crus, including Grande Champagneand Petite Champagne. It was at this time that Paul-Émile Remy Martin, owner of the Remy Martin cognac trading house, began blending eaux-de-vie from the first two crus to create an exceptional cognac. Today, Remy Martin considers 1848 to be the birth year of its first Fine de Champagne cognac.
The Terroir of Fine Champagne
Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne are wine-growing regions renowned for the quality of their clay-limestone soils. These soils, of Cretaceous origin, give the grapes unique characteristics, which are reflected in the eau-de-vie produced. Grande Champagne is distinguished by its finesse and delicacy, while Petite Champagne brings power and aromatic richness. The vines grown in these crus benefit from a temperate oceanic climate, favoring slow, regular ripening of the grapes. This produces eaux-de-vie with the subtle, complex aromas characteristic of Fine Champagne.
Making Fine Champagne
The production of Fine Champagne begins with the harvesting of grapes in the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne vineyards. The grapes, mainly of the Ugni Blanc variety, are pressed to obtain the must, which is then fermented. After fermentation, the eau-de-vie is distilled in the traditional way, using the discontinuous repasse distillation method. This technique produces a high-quality eau-de-vie, rich in aroma and flavor. Once distilled, the eau-de-vie is aged for several years in oak casks. Barrel ageing allows the eau-de-vie to develop its aromas and refine over time. The length of the aging process may vary, but to qualify as Fine de Champagne, the eau-de-vie must be aged for at least two years. During this period, the eau-de-vie acquires complex aromas, woody notes and a smooth texture.
Fine Champagne Cognac Houses
Fine Champagne Tasting
Fine de Champagne is distinguished by its rich, balanced aromatic palette. On the nose, floral, fruity and spicy aromas evolve on the palate to reveal notes of caramel, vanilla and dried fruit. Due to its prolonged aging, Fine de Champagneoffers a velvety texture and exceptional length on the palate. Fine de Champagne can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on individual preferences. Some prefer to taste it neat, to fully savor the aromas and complexity of this exceptional eau-de-vie. Others like to enjoy it on the rocks, to appreciate its freshness and smoothness. Finally, Fine de Champagne can also be used in the preparation of refined cocktails, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Fine Champagne cognac has no age or quality classification, but you will find trade names such as :
S. (Very Special): cognacs whose youngest eau-de-vie is at least two years old.
Trois étoiles : cognacs whose youngest eau-de-vie is at least two years old.
S.O.P. (Very Superior Old Pale): cognacs whose youngest eau-de-vie is at least four years old.
O. Napoléon (Extra Old): cognacs whose youngest eau-de-vie is at least six years old.
Conclusion
La Fine de Champagne is an exceptional cognac, renowned for its finesse, elegance and delicate aromas. A blend of eaux-de-vie from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus, this cognac embodies the know-how and expertise of the cognac houses. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in cocktails, Fine de Champagne will delight the most demanding cognac lovers. Immerse yourself in the world of Fine de Champagne and let yourself be seduced by its unique character and refined taste.