ognac production falls under French appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation, with production methods and naming required to meet certain legal requirements, inclouding using specific grapes such as: Ugni blanc, known locally as Saint-Émilion. The brandy must be twice distilled in copper pot stills and aged at least two years in French oak barrels from Limousin or Tronçais. Cognac matures in the same way as whisky and most cognacs spend considerably longer "on the wood" than the minimum legal requirement. We can help you discover this beautiful "wine" region with an excellent well-rounded itinerary, combined with the nearby Saint-Émilion wine region, to uncover this region's hidden gems, just for you.

he West Coast of France features amazing sand beaches, wild dunes and the beautiful hilly wine region of Saint-Émilion and Cognac. From Cap Ferret and the Arcachon basin, to the tiny but trendy island of Île de Ré. Now with new exciting luxury hotel properties, this region is quickly becoming a hotspot for those looking for another , less crowded coastal experience than the Mediterranean.

One of our favorite French islands, which is more off the beaten tourist path is set among dunes, ocean and forest. France's Île de Ré is known as the 'Pearl of the Atlantic'. This small island off the west coast of France features salt marshes and long sandy beaches like the Plage de la Conche des Baleines, which is part of the Gironde Estuary and the Pertuis Marine Nature Reserve. The iconic, Phare des Baleines is a lighthouse offering expansive views of the coastline.

The island consists of 10 small villages each with their own charm. The main town of St-Martin-de-Ré features the 17th-century Vauban fortifications, along with several outdoor cafes overlooking the marina serving up fresh oysters and seafood. Ideal for both families and bicycle lovers, marked paths crisscross the island offering a laid back coastal vibe.

Beyond the sublime coastline venture inlands and we can help you discover the sophisticated region of Cognac and Saint-Émilion. In the heart of the country of Libournais, in a region of wine hills, Saint-Émilion is a medieval city located at the crossroads of Bordeaux, Saintonge and Périgord.