The Cognac Delimited Region

The Cognac Delimited Region

A decree dating back to 1909 determines the territory on which cognac can be produced: The Cognac Delimited Region. Cognac is located in the Charente region of Southwestern France bordering the Atlantic Ocean to the West and the neighboring regions of Angoulême and the Massif Central to the East. The area has a distinct microclimate characterized by being softly tempered, with sufficient amounts of sunlight and adequate rain, and an average annual temperature of 13.5°C.  But most importantly the region is characterized by the great diversity of its soils ranging from open country chalky soils, stony red-soiled plains, to green valleys. The chalk in soil is important as it helps retain moisture and will therefore help drain water when raining and store it for dry periods. Also the chalk helps to reflect sunlight and thereby the ripening of the grapes.

The growing areas also known as The Crus

In 1938 a decree subdivided the Cognac region into 6 growing areas Champagnes (Grande and Petite Champagne), Borderies, and Bois (Fins Bois, Bons Bois, and Bois Ordinaires). In the heart of the region is Grand Champagne, which generally is believed to produce the best cognac and can therefore claim the name premier cru. Grand Champagne is almost encircled by Petite Champagne and to its north is the small growing area Borderies. Outside of these are then the Fine Bois growing area and then finally the Bons Bois and the Bois Ordinaires marks of the Cognac region.