In Châteaubernard, at the heart of Grande Champagne, the Brisson family has farmed and distilled on its own land for five generations. Excellence is the bottling allowed to wait the longest, a Cognac without hurry, shaped by time rather than output.
Expert's Description
Gilles Brisson Grande Champagne Excellence is a 1er Cru French Cognac from 100% Grande Champagne, at least 30 years old, bottled at 40%.
The Brisson family owns 75 hectares in Grande Champagne, Cognac's most celebrated cru, and Cyril Brisson has led the estate since 1989. The philosophy is simple: perfection takes time, so the house ages its Cognacs well beyond the legal minimum, allowing the full aromatic intensity and silky texture that Grande Champagne is famous for.
Excellence is the house's oldest standard bottling, an expression of how far the family is willing to go for quality over volume. It is not sold to large distribution chains, only to specialist shops and restaurants that understand the value of a Cognac allowed to mature for decades.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A deep aroma of dried fruit, honey and a touch of rancio, with a hint of old leather.
Palate
Full and silky, with notes of fig, toasted almond and dark caramel.
Finish
Very long, warm and elegant, with a last note of spiced oak and dried apricot.
Specifications
Name: Gilles Brisson Grande Champagne Excellence
Distillery: Gilles Brisson
Country: France
Type: 1er Cru French Cognac
Age: Min. 30 years
ABV: 40%
Size: 70 CL
Serving suggestion: Enjoyed on its own, at room temperature, in a cognac glass
Flavour Profile
Dried Fruit · Rancio · Toasted Almond · Dark Caramel
Did You Know?
Did you know that the Brisson family's 75 hectares lie entirely within Grande Champagne, the only cru legally allowed to stand alone on a label without any blend from other areas, and that Excellence is never sold to large chains, only to specialist shops and restaurants.
