Frapin Cognac is rooted in the town of Segonzac, nestled in the heart of the Grande Champagne region of France. This region is renowned for producing some of the finest Cognacs in the world, and Frapin has been a prominent player in the industry for centuries.
The story of Frapin begins way back in 1270 when the Frapin family first established themselves as wine-growers in the South West of France. Over time, they ventured into the art of distillation, honing their skills and passing down their knowledge from generation to generation. Today, Frapin stands as a testament to their dedication and expertise, with 20 generations of experience behind them.
The Grande Champagne region, where Frapin is located, is recognized as the premier cru of Cognac production. The soil composition, climate, and microclimate of this area create the perfect conditions for growing exceptional grapes, which are the foundation of high-quality Cognac.
The Frapin estate spreads across 240 hectares of vineyards, mostly planted with the Ugni Blanc grape variety, which is the primary grape used in Cognac production. These vineyards are meticulously tended to throughout the year, with the utmost care given to the vines to ensure the best quality grapes are harvested.
Once the grapes are harvested, they undergo a meticulous process of fermentation and distillation. Frapin uses traditional copper pot stills for distillation, which allows for greater control and precision in capturing the desired flavors and aromas of the Cognac. The distillation process is a delicate art, requiring the expertise of the master distiller to make decisions that will shape the final product.
After distillation, the Cognac is aged in oak barrels, where it undergoes a slow and transformative maturation process. The barrels used by Frapin are carefully selected to impart specific characteristics to the Cognac, such as subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and oak. The aging process can last anywhere from a few years to several decades, depending on the desired style and quality of the Cognac.
Frapin takes pride in its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each step of the production process is carried out with precision and passion, ensuring that every bottle of Frapin Cognac is a true reflection of the family's heritage and expertise.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting Frapin Cognac and experiencing its exceptional quality firsthand. The depth of flavors, the smoothness on the palate, and the complexity of aromas are a testament to the skill and dedication of the Frapin family. It is a Cognac that truly captures the essence of the Grande Champagne region and showcases the artistry of traditional Cognac production.