The history of Germain-Robin dates back to 1981 when Hubert Germain-Robin and Ansley Coale established the distillery at an old sheep ranch on Low Gap Road. Hubert, hailing from Cognac, France, came from a family with a long lineage of cognac production since 1782. This rich heritage and experience in the world of spirits undoubtedly influenced the creation of Germain-Robin.
The founders were immediately captivated by the abundance of locally available grape varieties in California, which served as a source of inspiration for their brandy production. With such a diverse range of grapes at their disposal, the possibilities for crafting unique and exceptional spirits seemed endless.
One of the distinguishing factors of Germain-Robin is the synthesis of traditional French distillation techniques with the use of American grapes. This combination gives their brandies a distinctive character and sets them apart from traditional cognacs.
From the very beginning, Germain-Robin sought to showcase the terroir of California through their spirits. They recognized that the unique climate, soil, and grape varieties of the region played a crucial role in shaping the flavors and aromas of their brandies. By embracing these elements, Germain-Robin aimed to create a true reflection of California's viticultural diversity.
As the years passed, Germain-Robin continued to experiment and refine their distillation methods. They constantly sought to push the boundaries of what was possible in the realm of brandy production. This dedication to innovation and perfection is evident in the exquisite craftsmanship of their spirits.
Over time, Germain-Robin gained recognition and acclaim for their exceptional brandies. Their commitment to quality and pursuit of excellence led to numerous awards and accolades from prestigious spirits competitions around the world.
The success of Germain-Robin can be attributed not only to their exceptional spirits but also to the passion and dedication of their founders and team. Hubert Germain-Robin's deep knowledge and expertise, combined with Ansley Coale's business acumen, created a foundation for the distillery's success.
Today, Germain-Robin continues to produce some of the finest brandies in the world. Their commitment to using locally sourced grapes and preserving the traditional craft of distillation ensures that each bottle embodies the spirit of California. With each sip, one can taste the history, heritage, and passion that goes into every bottle of Germain-Robin brandy.