Tasting Bourgoin Cognac the real winegrower’s cognac

A Closer Look at Tasting Bourgoin Cognac: A Genuine, Family-Run Experience

If you’re the kind of traveler who craves more than just drinking Cognac — who wants to understand its roots, the craft behind it, and taste some truly unique creations — the Tasting Bourgoin Cognac tour might just be worth your time. This experience offers an intimate peek into a family’s commitment to organic, natural production, all in a setting that balances tradition with a touch of modern flair.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on authenticity. Frédéric Bourgoin, the owner, describes himself as a “terroirist winemaker and alchemist,” which hints at the genuine passion that fuels this family operation. Plus, the tasting features unfiltered, unsweetened, and added coloring-free cognacs, giving drinkers a taste of the real deal rather than commercialized varieties. Plus, the setting — passing through the aging cellar and distillery — feels personal and genuine, which is often lost in larger, more commercial tours.

However, a potential consideration is the duration: at about an hour, it’s a fairly quick peek into the process. If you’re looking for an in-depth, all-day excursion or a broader overview of Cognac production, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for those interested in a personalized, quality experience and a chance to taste some remarkable, authentically crafted Cognacs, this tour hits the mark.

This experience would suit curious travelers who appreciate small-scale production, are interested in organic and natural spirits, or simply want a taste of what the true winegrowers in the region are producing today.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Heritage: Run by Frédéric Bourgoin, this tour offers a genuine family story in Cognac making.
• Focus on Natural Products: The cognacs are unfiltered, unsweetened, and free from artificial coloring.
• Personalized Experience: Guided by family members, passing through the aging cellar and distillery with technical insights.
• Quality Tasting: Includes a variety of unique products like 2018 grape brandy, 2010 double-lie cognac, and 1998 brut de fût.
• Educational and Engaging: Explains the soil, geology, and wine-growing approach, enriching your understanding of what makes Bourgoin Cognac special.
• Price-Value Balance: At about $46, the tour offers a genuine tasting experience, especially considering it’s a small, family-run operation.

An Honest Breakdown of the Bourgoin Cognac Tour

When considering a visit to a Cognac producer, many of us want more than just a sip — we want to understand what makes that particular spirit special. The Tasting Bourgoin Cognac tour delivers just that, offering a look at a family’s dedication to organic farming and craftsmanship.

The Location and Meeting Point

Starting at 14 Rue du Puits, Saint-Saturnin, the tour begins in a quaint setting just a short trip from Cognac itself. The location feels authentic, avoiding any overly commercialized atmosphere. It’s a manageable meeting point, especially for those staying nearby or exploring the region by car.

The Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately an hour, making it a good option for travelers with limited time but still wanting a meaningful experience. It’s capped at 30 travelers, but from reviews, it seems to maintain a cozy, intimate vibe, especially since the tasting is guided by a family member. This small group size allows for questions, personalized explanations, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Guided Tour: From Soil to Spirit

What sets this experience apart is the passionate storytelling. Frédéric Bourgoin’s enthusiasm for his craft shines through as he guides you through the process, emphasizing his commitment to organic agriculture and natural production. Expect to pass through the authentic aging cellar, where the spirits mature slowly in traditional conditions, and the distillery, where the magic begins.

Here, you’ll get a closer look at their unique wine-growing approach, which involves understanding the soil and geology of the vineyard. These technical insights may seem niche but add a layer of appreciation for the nuances that influence flavor and aroma.

The Tasting Experience

The main event is, of course, the tasting, and it’s what many visitors rave about. You’ll try a selection that includes:

• Grape Brandy 2018 (38% vol.)
• Cognac Double-Lie 2010 (45% vol.)
• Cognac Brut de Fût 1998 (53% vol.)
• Pineau des Charentes White (17% vol.)
• Verjuice (pH 2.5)
• Grape Sugar (65 Brix)
• Grapeseed Oil

Each sip reveals different nuances, from young, vibrant flavors to more complex, aged profiles. The Double-Lie 2010 is especially noteworthy for its balance and depth, reflecting the care taken during production. One reviewer mentioned that the family’s enthusiasm makes the experience even more engaging — you’re not just tasting, you’re learning about what makes each product unique.

The Value of This Tour

At $46.34 per person, you’re paying for a personalized, authentic experience that focuses on genuine craftsmanship. Compared to larger commercial distilleries, this offers a more intimate view of a family operation with a focus on quality over quantity. Plus, the fact that Bourgoin Cognac’s bottles are featured in over 150 Michelin-starred restaurants— and even at the Élysée — speaks to the quality and reputation of their product.

The Authentic Experience in Action

From the reviews, it’s evident that enthusiasm and passion are what really make this tour special. Rebecca, one of the guides, shared how the Bourgoin family is committed to honoring tradition while exploring innovative products outside the usual scope. Visitors appreciate the focus on soil, process, and history, making it more than just a tasting — it’s an educational journey.

And because the tour includes passing through the operation cellar, you get a real sense of the environment where these spirits are aged, which adds depth and authenticity that big commercial brands often miss.

The Downsides and Considerations

While this is a genuinely engaging experience, it’s worth noting that the hour-long format may feel brief for those wanting an extensive deep dive into the entire production process. It’s also a tasting-focused experience, so if you’re looking for a full-day activity or a broader overview of the Cognac industry, you’ll need to supplement this with additional visits.

On top of that, the price might seem steep for some, but considering the quality of the products and the personalized nature of the tour, many feel it offers fair value. Remember, only guests over 18 are permitted to drink alcohol, so it’s not suitable for families with children.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who genuinely appreciate small-scale, family-run operations and want a personal story behind their spirits. If you’re curious about organic winemaking and natural spirits, Bourgoin’s approach will resonate with you. It’s also suited for those who enjoy tasting distinctive products—from young brandies to aged Cognacs—and learning about the soil and environment that shape their flavor.

If you’re looking for a quick overview or a large-group experience, this might not fit the bill. But if you’re after a down-to-earth, honest, and educational tasting, it’s likely to be memorable.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, only those over 18 are allowed to consume alcoholic beverages, though the tour itself involves learning about the spirits and process.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1 hour, making it a concise but meaningful experience.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided visit and tasting of multiple unique products, including cognacs, Pineau des Charentes, Verjuice, and more.

Are snacks provided?
No, snacks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to have some food on hand.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s only suitable for those over 18 because of alcohol consumption regulations.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 14 Rue du Puits, Saint-Saturnin.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the location is accessible nearby public transport.

Can I book for fewer than four people?
No, a minimum of four people is required to reserve the tour.

Is there a chance to buy bottles at the end?
While not explicitly mentioned, many small producers offer bottles for purchase after the tasting, so it’s worth asking.

In summary, if you’re after a genuine, small-scale Cognac experience that’s both educational and flavorful, the Bourgoin tour offers a window into authentic craftsmanship. It’s especially suitable for those eager to understand the soil, process, and passion that go into each bottle. Keep in mind the brief duration and price point, but know that what you’ll taste and learn will make it a worthwhile trip into the heart of Cognac country.