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Domaine la Prenellerie
Domaine La Prenellerie, led by the visionary Frédéric Billonneau, represents a beacon of sustainability and quality in the French wine landscape. Nestled in the lush vineyards of Épargnes, the domaine has been a pioneer in organic winemaking since its early adoption of sustainable practices in 1984. With a commitment to preserving the environment and enhancing the quality of their wines, Domaine La Prenellerie offers an array of exquisite wines, Pineaus, and Cognacs that reflect the unique terroir and passionate winemaking and distillation tradition of the Billonneau family.
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A new Bons Bois discovery
Domaine La Prenellerie
New Bons Bois alert! Yes, that’s right, we have a new micro producer from the Bons Bois to present to our dear customers. Introducing Domaine de la Prenellerie, from one of the most westernly sides of the Cognac region, just a stone’s throw away from the Gironde Estuary.
Our love of the Bons Bois is not news to anyone. Indeed, we do our very best to champion all of Cognacs crus, but there is just something about small producers from the Bons Bois and the Cognacs they make. We find a sincerity, a charm, and a certain character to these Cognacs that cannot necessarily be found everywhere else. And what’s more, Domaine de la Prenellerie has a small but coherent range of Cognacs, easy to understand and all too easy to fall in love with. Featuring three products, with vastly different ages - and therefore different aroma and flavor profiles - there is something to love from each Cognac. We sure did!
We had the chance to visit the domaine back in the Spring and are now thrilled to release the range for all to see, smell, and taste. But first, here’s a little background on the domaine, its history, vines & terroir, and its production details.
At Domaine de la Prenellerie, the passion for viticulture has been handed down through generations.
It began in 1966 when Guy Billonneau took over his grandmother's family farm in Épargnes, which was originally a mixed farming operation. Recognizing the potential of the land near the Gironde Estuary, Guy quickly shifted focus from livestock to viticulture. He drew inspiration and knowledge from his father, Robert Billonneau, who was also a winemaker. Over nearly four decades, Guy established the foundation of Domaine de la Prenellerie's identity, specializing in Cognac and Pineau production.
In 2003, Guy's son, Frédéric Billonneau, who was working in import and export at the time, decided to explore winemaking himself. He started with a plot of young Merlot, returning to traditional methods and the joy of hand-harvesting. What began as a small project quickly grew into a passion for creating distinctive wines.
Frédéric took over the family estate and expanded its offerings to include red, rosé, and white wines, alongside the traditional Cognac and Pineau - which of course have captured our interest.
Today, Frédéric Billonneau manages Domaine de la Prenellerie on his own, so this is very much a one-man show. His hands-on approach ensures that every aspect of production, from vine to bottle, carries his own personal touch and signature.
Cru, Terroir, Vines
All the vines are located in the Bons Bois cru, centered around the commune of Épargnes. The estate spans 4 hectares for wine production and an additional 36 hectares dedicated to the production of Cognac and Pineau. These vineyards are on limestone hillsides, situated in the southwesternmost corner of the Cognac region. This area is renowned for its proximity to the stunning limestone cliffs at Talmont-sur-Gironde. A variety of Cognac grapes are grown here, including colombard, merlot, malbec, cabernet franc, ugni blanc, and montils. While all these grapes contribute to the diversity of the vineyard, only ugni blanc, montils, and colombard are utilized in the production of Cognac. Among these, ugni blanc is predominantly planted, playing a crucial role in defining the character and quality of the Cognac produced from these vines.
Organics
In 2015, Frederic began converting his vineyards to organic farming, starting with the vines used for red wine production. This process was completed with official certification in 2018, and the white wine vineyards followed suit in 2021. Frederic made this shift out of conviction, believing it would foster greater harmony in the vineyard. He notes that organic farming has made the vineyard more resilient and eliminated some of the imbalances associated with conventional farming. However, the transition to organics has not been without challenges, particularly in the temperate and humid region. One of the main difficulties lies in managing typical vine illnesses like oidium and mildiou. After periods of heavy rain, Frederic must be very prompt in treating the vines, as he cannot afford to delay. The treatments he is allowed to use include sulfur, bouillie bordelaise, and plant-based tisanes, as well as compost and other green fertilizers. These more natural treatment methods tend to work slowly, but more naturally and less aggressively than chemical based products. The timing is crucial for such treatments.
Another challenge involves managing the natural grasses that grow between the rows of vines. Frederic cultivates these grasses every other row, leaving the alternate rows open to facilitate work in the vineyard. However, since he cannot use herbicides, he must resort to more manual and labor-intensive methods to control the grass growth. This additional work requires both time and effort.
Climate challenges
Domaine la Prenellerie faces a variety of climate challenges similar to those encountered by other domaines in the region. Episodes of hail are particularly stressful, as they can cause significant damage to the vines.
Just this year in fact, specifically on the night from June 17 to 18, pockets of hail ravaged the western side of the Cognac region. Thankfully, Domaine de la Prenellerie was mostly spared, but other domaines in the area did not fare so well. It's events like these that can decimate a harvest in minutes. And its events like these can keep producers up at night.
In addition, spring frosts pose a major risk, potentially harming young shoots and reducing the year's yield. Drought is another concern, as prolonged dry periods can stress the vines and affect grape quality.
These climatic events all have the potential to significantly impact the health and productivity of the vineyard, requiring careful management and adaptation strategies.
Distillation, Chai & Oak
All distillation at Domaine la Prenellerie is carried out on-site using their own alambic charentais, a 25-hectoliter still with a load capacity of 20 hectoliters. While distillation typically is done without the lees, Frederic occasionally distills with some lees to achieve specific characteristics in the eaux-de-vie. He producers young eau-de-vie, which is sold to renowned brands such as Martell, Grand Marnier, and Camus. Martell and Grand Marnier usually prefer distillation without any lees, whereas Camus is open to having some lees distilled.
After distillation, the young eaux-de-vie are first stored in the domaine's dry cellar before being moved to the humid cellar for aging, which is where nearly all of the older qualities mature. For new oak barrels used in aging Cognac, Frederic sources from Tonnellerie Vicard, choosing fine grain barrels with a medium+ toast. Interestingly, for his red wines that require oak aging, he acquires first-fill barrels from Chateau Pavie, located nearby in Saint Emilion.
There is no fixed rule for aging his Cognacs; Frederic lets taste guide the process. This means some eaux-de-vie might spend two years in new oak before being transferred to older barrels, while others follow a different aging regimen. The approach is flexible and tailored to achieve the desired flavor profile, with no predetermined aging rule strictly followed. Smell and taste dictate everything.
The Cognacs
The Domaine la Prenellerie offers a range of wines including 100% Malbec, 100% Merlot, 100% Colombard wines, and a rosé. They also produce Pineau in red, white, and Très Vieux varieties, as well as Cognacs under the labels VSOP, Vieille Reserve, and Hors d’Age.
The VSOP Cognac, which is approximately 15 years old, significantly exceeds the minimum legal aging requirement. It is distilled and blended by Frederic himself. The VSOP is described as having a complex aroma profile, featuring notes of rose petals, mango, and cedarwood, with a good length on the palate. This Cognac is versatile, suitable for enjoying as an aperitif, after meals, or paired with strong cheeses.
The Vieille Reserve Cognac has a minimum age of 30 years. It was originally distilled by Frederic’s father but later blended and bottled by Frederic. This Cognac is noted for its richness and expressiveness, offering aromas of prunes, licorice, toasted bread, honey, coffee, cocoa, candied fruits, exotic wood, nuts, and tobacco. It delivers a rich and lengthy experience on the palate.
The Hors d’Age Cognac, with a minimum age of 50 years, was distilled by Frederic’s grandfather. Frederic took over the blending for bottling. The Hors d’Age is noted for its extraordinary aromatic complexity, featuring scents of rose petals, mango, cedarwood, and an impressive lingering finish. It can be enjoyed as an aperitif, after meals, or paired with robust cheeses. A Cognac that is perfect proof that Bons Bois Cognacs can indeed go the distance. Beautiful Cognac!
All the Cognacs are naturally colored, with only the VSOP having a slight addition of sugar to balance and smooth out its youthful vigor.
Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac
Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac
$ 115
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- Hors d'Age
- Growth area
- Bons Bois
- Bottle size
- 500ml
- ABV
- 40%
- Additional Info
- 50 years old
Tasting review
Eye: Golden amber.
Nose: A complex aroma profile featuring rose petals, ripe mango, and cedarwood. Subtle nuances of tropical fruits and floral notes add depth to the bouquet.
Palate: The palate is rich and layered, with the sweetness of mango blending with floral hints and a touch of cedar. This Cognac offers a balanced taste experience, highlighted by its smooth texture and refined character.
Finish: Remarkably long, leaving a lingering impression of exotic fruits and delicate spices.
Product description
Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac
The Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac is an exceptional blend made from Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard grapes - aged for at least 50 years. It is of natural color without any additives added to it.
Known for its remarkable complexity, this Cognac interacts with the senses with a beautifully intricate aroma profile. The nose reveals delicate floral notes of rose petals, complemented by the tropical sweetness of ripe mango and the earthy ...
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie Hors d'Age Cognac
Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac
Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac
$ 62
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- Réserve
- Growth area
- Bons Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 40%
- Additional Info
- 30 years old
Tasting review
Eye: Deep amber.
Nose: A rich and expressive nose with aromas of prunes, licorice, toasted bread, honey, coffee, cocoa, candied fruits, exotic wood, nuts, and tobacco.
Palate: The palate is robust and complex, featuring layers of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and a hint of spicy oak. Notes of honey and coffee intermingle with subtle touches of licorice and toasted nuts, offering a richly textured experience.
Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering flavors of cocoa and tobacco, leaving a warm and elegant aftertaste.
Product description
Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac
The Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac, aged for an impressive 30 years. No additives have been added to the Vieille Réserve, it is of natural color.
This mature and complex spirit showcases an array of aromas, starting with the sweet richness of prunes and licorice, followed by inviting notes of toasted bread, honey, and coffee. The nose also reveals hints of cocoa, candied fruits, exotic wood, and a touch of tobacco, making it a tru...
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie Vieille Réserve Cognac
Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac
Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac
$ 47
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- VSOP
- Growth area
- Bons Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 40%
- Additional Info
- 15 years old
Tasting review
Eye: Golden amber.
Nose: A complex bouquet featuring rose petals, ripe mango, and subtle hints of cedarwood.
Palate: Delicate floral notes blend seamlessly with tropical fruit undertones and a gentle touch of oak. The Cognac evolves with a notable length and a smooth finish.
Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering hints of dried fruits and soft spices.
Product description
Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac
Experience the Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac, aged for 15 years to achieve a remarkable complexity for the VSOP category. This VSOP is naturally coloured with only a slight addition of sugar to balance and smooth out its youthful vigor.
This Cognac boasts a sophisticated aroma that starts with the gentle scent of rose petals, intertwining with tropical notes of ripe mango and the earthy tones of cedarwood. It's a versatile spirit, ideal for enjoying as a...
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac
Read more about Domaine la Prenellerie VSOP Cognac
Conclusion
We are beyond thrilled with this new addition, and nothing gets us more excited than finding a new small micro producer of beautiful Bons Bois Cognacs. The domaine really ticks all of the boxes and is a perfect reminder of why we fell in love with the region, its people, and its Cognacs - not that we really needed any reminder.
These Cognacs demonstrate the very best of the Bons Bois cru and the value for the age is simply off the charts. Who are these for? Honestly, any lover of Cognac regardless of where he or she is in the Cognac journey.
It’s been a fun year full of discovery. Domaine de la Prenellerie is right up there with our finds at Domaine Grateaud. Can’t miss Bons Bois Cognac. Grab some and enjoy!
Summary
Domaine La Prenellerie Today
Under the stewardship of Frédéric Billonneau, Domaine La Prenellerie continues to forge a path of innovation and excellence in winemaking. Achieving the prestigious "Haute Valeur Environnementale" certification in 2020, the domaine is renowned for its meticulous attention to biodiversity, soil management, and water conservation. Frédéric's approach is deeply influenced by his father, Guy Billonneau, who first transitioned the farm towards specialized vine cultivation, abandoning polyculture in favor of maximizing the potential of their vineyards.
The Journey of Domaine La Prenellerie
The history of Domaine La Prenellerie is a captivating tale of family, passion, and the evolution of winemaking. Founded by Guy Billonneau in 1966, the domaine transformed from a traditional polyculture farm into a specialized vineyard driven by the region's exceptional conditions for viticulture. Guy's pioneering spirit was inherited from his forebears, notably his father, Robert Billonneau, also a dedicated viticulturist. The family's legacy is built on decades of accumulated knowledge and a relentless pursuit of wine excellence, showcased today in their outstanding Cognac, Pineau, and a variety of red, white, and rosé wines.
In 2015, Frederic, the current generation, began converting his vineyards to organic farming, starting with the vines used for red wine production. This process was completed with official certification in 2018, and the white wine vineyards followed suit in 2021. Frederic made this shift out of conviction, believing it would foster greater harmony in the vineyard. He notes that organic farming has made the vineyard more resilient and eliminated some of the imbalances associated with conventional farming.
All distillation at Domaine la Prenellerie is carried out on-site using their own alambic charentais, a 25-hectoliter still with a load capacity of 20 hectoliters. While distillation typically is done without the lees, Frederic occasionally distills with some lees to achieve specific characteristics in the eaux-de-vie. He producers young eau-de-vie, which is sold to renowned brands such as Martell, Grand Marnier, and Camus. Martell and Grand Marnier usually prefer distillation without any lees, whereas Camus is open to having some lees distilled.
After distillation, the young eaux-de-vie are first stored in the domaine's dry cellar before being moved to the humid cellar for aging, which is where nearly all of the older qualities mature. For new oak barrels used in aging Cognac, Frederic sources from Tonnellerie Vicard, choosing fine grain barrels with a medium+ toast. Interestingly, for his red wines that require oak aging, he acquires first-fill barrels from Chateau Pavie, located nearby in Saint Emilion.
There is no fixed rule for aging his Cognacs; Frederic lets taste guide the process.
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