The six crus of Cognac are Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois, and Bois Ordinaires. These crus are specific growing regions within the Cognac region of France, and each one has its own unique characteristics that contribute to the final flavor profile of the Cognac.
Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne are considered the top crus of Cognac. They are located in the heart of the region and are known for producing the finest and most prestigious Cognacs. The chalky soil in these areas helps to produce grapes with high acidity and excellent aging potential. Cognacs made solely from eaux-de-vie from these crus are often labeled as “Grande Champagne” or “Petite Champagne” Cognacs.
Borderies is another cru that is highly regarded in the Cognac world. It is a smaller region located within the larger Cognac region, and it is known for producing Cognacs with a distinct floral and fruity character. Cognacs made predominantly from eaux-de-vie from the Borderies cru may be labeled as “Borderies” Cognacs.
Fins Bois is a larger cru that surrounds the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne regions. Cognacs made from grapes grown in this area tend to have a more fruity and rounded flavor profile. While not as prestigious as the top crus, Fins Bois Cognacs can still be of high quality and offer a good value for the price.
Bons Bois and Bois Ordinaires are the two remaining crus of Cognac, and they are located further away from the center of the region. Cognacs made from these crus are generally considered to be of lesser quality and are often used in blends to add complexity and character. However, there are still some producers who specialize in making Cognacs exclusively from these crus, and they can offer unique and interesting flavor profiles.
When it comes to Cognac production, it is common for producers to use a blend of eaux-de-vie from different crus in order to achieve a desired flavor profile. However, if a producer chooses to use eaux-de-vie solely from one single cru in a blend, they can state it on the label. This allows consumers to have an idea of the specific characteristics they can expect from the Cognac.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have had the opportunity to taste Cognacs from each of the six crus. I find that Cognacs from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne regions tend to have a more refined and elegant character, with notes of dried fruits, spices, and oak. Cognacs from Borderies often exhibit a floral and fruity bouquet, with hints of violet, pear, and apricot. Fins Bois Cognacs tend to be fruit-forward, with flavors of apple, peach, and vanilla. Bons Bois and Bois Ordinaires Cognacs can vary in flavor profile, but they often have a more rustic and robust character, with notes of caramel, leather, and tobacco.
The six crus of Cognac offer a range of flavors and styles, allowing consumers to explore and appreciate the diversity within the category. Whether you prefer a refined and elegant Cognac or a more robust and rustic one, there is a crus that will suit your taste preferences.