Discover Vallein Tercinier Cognac A look behind the scenes of a traditional distillery
Vallein Tercinier Cognac represents over 160 years of craftsmanship, family history, and a special flair for excellent distillates. In this blog, you'll experience an exciting journey through the brand's origins, learn how cognac is actually produced, and get to know the most popular products and their special features. If you'd like to know why Vallein Tercinier is considered a true insider tip among connoisseurs and gourmets, you'll find all the background information here.
A family business with character
The story of Vallein Tercinier begins in 1850 in Chermignac, in the heart of the Charente region. Since its founding, the company has been passed down from generation to generation. Family members are still involved in every process today. This is what defines Vallein Tercinier's character: its personal touch and in-depth knowledge of every single stage of cognac production.
The family estate, known as the "Logis des Valleins," is located between Saintes and Cognac, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. The connection to the region and the continuity of the family spirit are evident in every drop of Vallein Tercinier Cognacs.
How Cognac is made, explained step by step
The harvest and the wine
The basis of every Cognac is the wine. The grapes (mostly Ugni Blanc) are carefully harvested in the fall and processed immediately. The Vallein Tercinier family relies exclusively on wines from the finest Charente vineyards, such as Bons Bois, Fins Bois, Petite Champagne, and Grande Champagne. Each of these regions brings its own unique style to the Cognac.
Distillation using the Charentais method
Alcoholic fermentation is followed by distillation. At Vallein Tercinier, they work traditionally with historic copper alembic stills, following the classic Charentais method ("double distillation"). This gives the distillates their delicate, aromatic character. Experience and sensitivity are essential here, as the master distiller uses a great deal of patience and expertise to decide when to separate the heart, foreshots, and feints.
The long maturation in oak barrels
After distillation, the young cognac is allowed to mature in oak barrels stored in the winery's old cellars. Depending on the product, the distillate spends many years, sometimes decades, in the damp, dark cellars. The barrels are traditionally made of French oak and provide the complex aromas of vanilla, spices, dried fruits, and nuts.
The art of blending
One of Vallein Tercinier's greatest strengths is blending. The family combines different vintages, vineyards, and maturities to create a unique style. This results in not only classic VS, VSOP, and XO Cognacs, but also rare single-cask bottlings and limited special editions. The result is harmonious, aromatic, and always authentic.