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WV Baker & Cie
WV Baker & Cie is a love story about a beautiful French girl and a lucky Englishman who met in Saintes, a Roman town steeped in history and surrounded by rolling acres of cognac vines. Saintes sits at the heart of the Fins Bois region, with the vineyards of Petite Champagne and Bons Bois on either side. This is where Benjamin Baker grew up. It is where he learned to know and love the secrecy of the many treasures yet to be revealed: works less strict, less formal, and less dictated by the convention of time.
This is what he brings to his cognacs: a little bit of English influence, perhaps, and a touch of the Scotch Whisky style, but especially a sense of the freedom and artistry that is so close to his heart and to the gentle way of life of his hometown.
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From Pilot to Cognac Hunter
The unique story of Benjamin Baker
Benjamin Baker’s path to becoming a Cognac producer is anything but traditional. From his early dreams of becoming a pilot to selling sweets in northern England, his journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a growing passion for the art of Cognac. Benjamin is not the typical small winegrower—he represents a completely different side of the Cognac business. A former pilot turned Cognac négociant, his journey is centered on hunting for rare barrels rather than cultivating his own vines. Guided by mentors like Gilles Merle and Guilhem Grosperrin, Benjamin’s path from aviation to Cognac has been one of resilience and adaptability. Today, he scours the region for hidden gems, creating unique Cognacs that reflect his commitment to purity, quality, and the fascinating stories behind each barrel. Read his unique story and learn more about the key to finding rare and old barrels.
Benjamin Baker
Benjamine's wife Marie
The pivot from aviation to Cognac
Benjamin’s journey to the world of Cognac is one of resilience and reinvention. His childhood dream of becoming a pilot led him to study mathematics and physics before enrolling in the prestigious Oxford Aviation Academy. He achieved his dream and became a professional pilot, but the subprime crisis in 2010 shook the aviation industry. Unable to find work, he shifted gears, taking a job selling sweets in Blackburn, a town in northern England.
I loved it but I mean it was really tough selling sweets on the phone in Blackburn...was kind of a change. But I enjoyed it a lot.
Benjamin reflects on this challenging time, viewing it as a stepping stone in his journey.
Benjamin's father owned a small business called Épicerie Saint Georges, which inspired the name Spirit of Saint Georges. His father sold coffee, chocolates, and tea, and those rich aromas have remained with Benjamin to this day.
But flying wasn’t ready to let go of him. He joined the French Air Force in 2011 to continue pursuing his passion, quickly progressing due to his qualifications. But when Benjamin met Marie, the woman who would become his wife, he faced a choice between his love of flying and his desire to build a family. At just 21 years old, he made the difficult decision to leave the Air Force behind and focus on building a new life.
I knew I couldn’t do both.
Benjamin recognized the need to prioritize his family.
His pivot to the Cognac industry was gradual, starting with a humbling job selling cheap flavored wine in supermarkets, but it was there that he connected with Gilles Merlet, a figure who would become his mentor and offer him an apprenticeship. This path into Cognac would eventually become his passion, rooted in the relationships he built and the dedication he showed to mastering the craft.
Benjamin’s early struggles in the Cognac industry
After making the bold decision to leave the Air Force and start a new life, Benjamin faced significant challenges in his early career within the Cognac industry. One of his first jobs was selling low-cost flavored wine in supermarkets—a stark contrast to his previous life as an officer. Reflecting on this humbling experience, Benjamin said,
I was an officer in the Air Force, and suddenly selling this cheap wine in supermarkets… it was really tough, but it was good because it put my feet back on the ground.
During this period, Benjamin faced daily struggles, including an ambitious sales target set by his mentor, Gilles Merlet.
Gilles told me, you have to sell 60 bottles a day… but I managed an average of 35.
To his surprise, Gilles was impressed, recognizing that the bar had been set high intentionally to push him. This marked the beginning of Benjamin’s apprenticeship under Gilles, where he was introduced to all aspects of the industry—from working in the vines to understanding the distillation process.
These early experiences were not only a test of his determination but also an essential foundation for Benjamin’s growing passion for Cognac. They instilled in him the value of humility and the importance of mastering every facet of the craft, no matter how small or challenging.
Guided by greatness:
The influence of Gilles Merlet & Guilhem Grosperrin
Mentorship was key to Benjamin’s development in the Cognac industry. After his humbling experience selling wine in supermarkets, he found guidance from Gilles Merlet, who became his first mentor.
I learned a bit of everything from Gilles Merlet.
Benjamin recalls how Gilles exposed him to every facet of the business, from distillation to working in the vineyards. He not only learned the intricacies of Cognac but also gained experience in the broader world of spirits, as Merlet specialized in distilling various spirits for other companies. This exposure broadened Benjamin’s understanding of different distillation techniques and the diversity of spirits beyond Cognac, further shaping his expertise and appreciation for the craft.
After three years, Benjamin moved on to Cognac Grosperrin, where Guilhem Grosperrin became a crucial mentor, deepening Benjamin's understanding of single vintages, terroirs, and the complexities of Cognac.
Later, Benjamin joined Bache Gabrielsen, where he learned the intricacies of export, customs, and navigating the global Cognac market. Each mentor brought something different to Benjamin's journey—Gilles taught him hands-on craftsmanship, Guilhem introduced him to the art of single vintages and terroir differentiation, and Bache-Gabrielsen expanded his knowledge of international business.
During his journey in the Cognac industry, Benjamin had the opportunity to collaborate with Vallein Tercinier, one of the oldest and most respected Cognac houses in the Sainte region. This experience deepened his understanding of the importance of building relationships with winegrowers and mastering the delicate process of Cognac production. From working closely with producers to refining his palate, Vallein Tercinier’s approach taught Benjamin the importance of creating a connection between the land, the people, and the spirit, which continues to influence his work today.
These mentors not only helped Benjamin hone his technical skills but also shaped his understanding of the value of relationships and personal connection within the Cognac world.
Gilles Merlet
Guilhem Grosperrin
How Benjamin discovered his passion for Cognac
Benjamin’s passion for Cognac didn’t emerge immediately but grew over time, shaped by his hands-on experiences and relationships within the industry. His first taste of this passion began during his apprenticeship under Gilles Merlet, as he became immersed in the delicate processes of distillation and vine cultivation. Over time, what started as a job evolved into something much deeper.
I didn’t know much about Cognac when I began.
Benjamin spent hours learning about the subtleties of aging, distilling methods, and the uniqueness of each vineyard, his enthusiasm flourished. Working with Cognac Grosperrin, he was introduced to the world of single vintages, and this sparked a fascination for the diversity of Cognac’s terroirs. He became increasingly captivated by the nuances that each plot of land could bring to the spirit.
I like Cognac to be very pure.
Benjamin emphasizes his growing love for the authentic and unadulterated expression of the spirit. Each experience with his mentors and in the vineyards only deepened his appreciation for the craft.
As his knowledge expanded, so did his admiration for the intricacies of Cognac. He became enthralled by the endless possibilities of flavor, each bottle representing a unique story shaped by the land, the distiller, and the aging process. This profound connection to Cognac, its history, and its people turned what was once a career path into a true calling for him. The spirit of Cognac had ignited something in him that goes beyond business—it became a passion that he continually strives to perfect.
Breaking into the market:
The difficult path of a small Cognac producer
Benjamin's entry into the Cognac business was filled with challenges. As a small independent producer in a highly traditional and competitive industry, cash flow became a recurring concern.
There are times when income can be quite irregular.
He shares insights candidly, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the business. Securing rare Cognacs in small quantities posed additional difficulties, especially when larger producers dominated the market. Managing operational details like excise duties and compliance with industry regulations also added to the strain. Yet, Benjamin remained undeterred, driven by passion and perseverance.
Beyond finances, another challenge was building trust within the tight-knit Cognac community. Relationships with winemakers and distillers took years to foster, and Benjamin understood that these connections were vital to gaining access to high-quality Cognacs. He notes how often producers were hesitant to sell small quantities, as they preferred to deal with larger buyers. Despite this, Benjamin slowly carved out a space for himself by focusing on producing pure, high-quality Cognac, relying on personal relationships and his deepening knowledge of the craft.
As his business grew, Benjamin also faced the challenge of balancing his love for Cognac with the realities of the industry. He realized that creating a sustainable business meant not only focusing on the product but also understanding the logistics behind Cognac export, excise duties, and global distribution. The need to navigate complex regulations while maintaining the integrity of his brand made the path forward difficult but rewarding.
From barrel to bottle
When it comes to product development, Benjamin’s approach is rooted in authenticity and a commitment to purity. Every bottle he produces is carefully selected for its unique story, reflecting the land, the distiller, and the aging process. Benjamin focuses on creating single-barrel, single-estate Cognacs that are entirely untouched—no added sugars, caramel, or blending. His development process starts with tasting countless samples, paying particular attention to the nose, which he believes is essential.
If the nose doesn’t please me, I won’t even try it.
His dedication to preserving the integrity of each Cognac is reflected in his methods. He works closely with small producers, often sourcing rare barrels that larger houses overlook, allowing him to find hidden gems that offer something extraordinary. He seeks out Cognacs with distinct characteristics, whether they be youthful and fresh or aged and complex.
Reducing the alcohol content in his younger Cognacs is part of his process, ensuring they are more accessible without compromising on flavor. For Benjamin, product development is about crafting Cognacs that are not only true to their origin but also carry a personal connection to the people and places that create them.
How to find rare barrels?
Benjamin’s process for finding barrels is anything but conventional. Recognizing the importance of relationships, he worked closely with several key figures who shaped his journey. One of his earliest collaborations was with the cellar master Foucault, who helped him discover and source rare barrels. Through introductions and word of mouth, Benjamin slowly built a network of trusted winemakers and distillers, each contributing to the unique Cognacs he bottles today.
These relationships are critical, as Benjamin acknowledges.
It’s all about human relationships... it takes time.
This network allowed him to access barrels that might otherwise be reserved for larger producers and cemented his reputation as a dedicated, passionate producer. This organic process often involves being at the right place at the right time, with producers trusting Benjamin to appreciate and care for their unique offerings. He describes how each new contact—whether it’s a winemaker, cellar master, or intermediary—can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Over time, this network has allowed Benjamin to acquire a variety of barrels that are distinctive in both their origin and aging process, giving him access to Cognacs that carry a deep connection to the land and people who produced them.
Benjamin’s collaborative spirit extended beyond sourcing barrels; he worked alongside his wife, who hand-drew the labels for some of his limited releases, bringing a personal touch to his brand. His close-knit community of collaborators enabled him to navigate the complex and competitive world of Cognac, helping him bring his unique vision of pure, unadulterated Cognac to life.
Hand-drawn labels by Marie
Final label
Balancing passion and family
For Benjamin, the journey into Cognac has been deeply personal. He shares that his passion for the spirit developed slowly, nurtured by the relationships he built along the way. Balancing his role as a producer with his personal life is one of his biggest achievements.
His love for Cognac, though sometimes challenging, has grown into a profound passion. He credits his family, especially his wife Marie, with keeping him grounded.
Flying and Cognac... those two passions have kept me going.
Benjamin highlights how maintaining balance helps him endure the ups and downs of running a small business. When things get difficult, he finds solace in spending time with his family or revisiting his love for flying, which has always been a source of peace and inspiration for him.
His personal resilience is mirrored in his business philosophy: staying grounded, working with integrity, and remembering that at the core of every bottle is a story of hard work and passion.
Conclusion
Benjamin’s journey from aviation to Cognac négociant highlights his dedication to an industry rooted in tradition, but approached from a fresh perspective. Through his relationships with mentors and his relentless pursuit of rare barrels, he’s created a unique place for himself in the Cognac world. Despite the challenges of being a small independent producer, Benjamin remains driven by his passion for creating pure, unaltered Cognacs that tell the stories of the land and people behind each barrel. His vision continues to evolve, shaping a new chapter in his adventure.
The Cognacs
At the end of the interview, Virginia and Benjamin tasted a few of his carefully selected Cognacs together. These included the two strictly limited edition “Spring Tulip” and “May Flower” Cognacs - both with his wife Marie's hand-painted labels.
Here is a list of all the cognacs they tasted:
- WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
- WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
- WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
- WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
- WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
Below you will find the tasting notes for the Cognacs.
WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower
Growth area: Fins Bois
Cognac age: 10 years in new barrels
ABV: 52.4% vol.
Limited: Only 12 bottles produced
Label: hand-drawn
Bottled: April 2024
Sold out. Sorry, you missed it.
I found it recently... I was thinking about making a label with my wife and calling it May Flower. It’s very unique, aged in new oak, which gave it that intensity, that pureness... It's a Cognac you won't find again like this.
WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip
Growth area: Fins Bois
Cognac age: 48 years old
ABV: 49% vol.
Limited: Only 7 bottles produced
Label: hand-drawn
Bottled: 2024 (distilled in 1975)
Sold out. Sorry, you missed it.
I love it because it has a richness, a touch, something I can’t quite put my finger on, that doesn’t quite compare to any terroir. And that is surely what is wonderful about this eau-de-vie.
WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
$ 125
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- Hors d'Age
- Growth area
- Grande Champagne
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 58.7%
- Bottled in
- February 2024
Tasting review
Color: Deep amber with golden highlights, displaying richness and depth from extended aging.
Nose: Strikingly floral, with classic Grande Champagne elegance. Aromas of jasmine and honeysuckle dominate, accompanied by hints of fresh orchard fruits—pear and white peach. Beneath the florals lies a layer of sweet vanilla and a touch of subtle rancio, promising complexity.
Palate: Bold and opulent, with an almost flamboyant richness. The floral notes on the nose give way to a palate full of dried apricots, ripe peaches, and a touch of candied orange peel. There’s a creamy texture with a decadent mix of honeyed sweetness, vanilla, and toasted almonds. Slightly extravagant and full of character, the Cognac delivers a confident burst of flavor, teetering on the edge of excess but remaining balanced by the depth of fruit and oak integration.
Finish: Long and audacious, with waves of ripe fruit and a hint of spice that lingers. The florals return softly, followed by a final flourish of vanilla and lightly toasted oak. A subtle trace of rancio adds complexity to the finish, leaving a memorable impression.
Product description
WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
The WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac is a striking expression of the prestigious Grande Champagne Cru. Discovered by Benjamin through a courtier's sample, this Cognac immediately captivates with its remarkably floral nose, typical of the region's finest offerings. Yet, it is on the palate where this spirit truly surprises.
Unlike the traditional Grande Champagne profile, this Cognac exudes an unexpected opulence. Its flavors are rich and bold,...
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Grande Champagne Cognac
WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
$ 73
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- XO
- Growth area
- Bons Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 58%
- Age (minimum)
- 10 years
- Bottled in
- October 2023
Tasting review
Color: Rich amber with deep golden highlights, hinting at extended aging.
Nose: Bold and complex, with dried figs and apricots upfront, followed by deeper notes of leather, roasted nuts, and toasted oak. There’s a subtle layer of spiced vanilla, with an earthy undertone that adds intrigue.
Palate: Assertive and textured, with an immediate bite that grabs your attention. Dark fruits like plum and black cherry blend with warming spices—cinnamon and clove—providing a structured backbone. The oak influence is prominent but well-integrated, giving it a robust, slightly tannic mouthfeel. A touch of pepper adds a bit of heat, balancing the richness of the fruit.
Finish: Incredibly long, with evolving layers. The bite mellows into a complex dance of dried fruit, soft leather, and earthy wood. A final wave of lingering spice and a hint of rancio creates an intriguing, almost mysterious end, inviting the next sip.
Please note: The actual product may differ from the product image.
Product description
WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
Introducing the WV Baker & Co. Old Rare Single Estate Cognac, a tribute to the rich tradition of Cognac craftsmanship from the Bons Bois region. This exclusive release, limited to just 456 bottles, encapsulates the essence of its single estate origin, delivering a truly unique and exceptional tasting experience. Lot N° 01-09.
The wine grower, who not only ages this Cognac on-site but also handcrafts the barrels it’s stored in, brings an ex...
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Saint-Palais de Négrignac Cognac
WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
Sold out. Sorry, you missed it.
- Cognac age
- Hors d'Age
- Growth area
- Fins Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 49%
- Bottled in
- April 2024
Tasting review
Color: Warm amber with golden hues, indicating its maturity and untouched nature from decades of aging.
Nose: Classic and understated, yet with depth that unfolds gradually. Soft aromas of dried fruits—mainly apricots and golden raisins—combine with gentle florals like dried wildflowers. There's a hint of earthiness and aged oak, alongside a subtle trace of rancio, all of which speak to the Cognac’s long time in cask.
Palate: Full and robust at cask strength, with a strong initial presence. The dried fruit from the nose continues on the palate, with added complexity from spiced oak and toasted almonds. There’s a gentle earthiness typical of well-aged Fins Bois, providing balance to the richer fruit elements. The Cognac maintains its strength and intensity throughout, with a touch of warmth and slight oiliness that coats the mouth.
Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering notes of dried fruit, oak, and a light spice. The finish has a certain rusticity, reflecting the classic Fins Bois terroir, but it’s well-rounded and leaves a satisfying impression of aged wood and soft florals.
Please note: The actual product may differ from the product image.
Product description
WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
The WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac is an extraordinarily limited edition release, with only 7 bottles produced, making it a coveted collector’s item. Bottled in 2024, this Cognac boasts an ABV of 49.0%, maintaining its natural cask strength for an authentic tasting experience. Crafted from grapes grown in the Fins Bois terroir, this Cognac is known for its aromatic richness and complexity.
It is a wonderful cognac, distilled in...
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
Read more about WV Baker Old Rare Spring Tulip Fins Bois Cognac
WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
$ 55
excl.
TAX
excl. shipping
- Cognac age
- VSOP
- Growth area
- Bons Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 48%
- Age (minimum)
- 8 years
- Bottled in
- October 2023
Tasting review
Color: Light golden amber, with a soft, inviting glow.
Nose: Gentle and straightforward, offering fresh fruits like apple and pear, along with a light citrus lift. There’s a touch of honey and just a hint of saltiness that adds depth. The simplicity is appealing, with subtle notes of fresh wood in the background.
Palate: Soft and round, with a pleasant fruitiness that leads with juicy pear and a touch of peach. The structure is light, slightly oily but not overly so. There’s a delicate balance between the fruit and a faint saline note, making it refreshing and easy to sip. The intensity is just right.
Finish: Short and clean, with a lingering sense of fruit and a slight oily texture. The saltiness fades gently, leaving a simple, soft aftertaste. It’s not particularly long, but it's well-suited for casual drinking or as a base in cocktails.
Please note: The actual product may differ from the product image.
Product description
WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
Introducing the WV Baker Rare Pale Bons Bois Cognac, a distinguished addition to the cognac connoisseur's collection. Distilled from Ugni Blanc grapes in the Bons Bois terroir, this cognac is a pure expression of the region's unique characteristics. The lot number is N° 03-15. The number represents the 3rd cognac Benjamin ever bottled which is from 2015.
With 8 years of careful aging, this Rare Pale cognac emerges as a rare and exceptional spiri...
Read more about WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
Read more about WV Baker Rare Pale Préguillac Bons Bois Cognac
WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
Sold out. Sorry, you missed it.
- Cognac age
- VSOP
- Growth area
- Fins Bois
- Bottle size
- 700ml
- ABV
- 52.4%
- Bottled in
- April 2024
Tasting review
Eye: Pale amber with golden highlights.
Nose: Aromatic with notes of fresh citrus, white flowers, and a hint of almond.
Palate: Smooth and balanced with flavors of ripe pear, honey, and vanilla, complemented by a subtle spiciness.
Finish: Long and delicate with lingering floral and nutty notes.
Please note: The actual product may differ from the product image.
Product description
WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
The WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac is an exclusive limited edition release, with only 12 bottles produced, making it an exceptional addition to any connoisseur’s collection. Bottled on 06/04/2024, this unique Cognac has an ABV of 52.4% and is crafted solely from Ugni Blanc grapes grown in the Fins Bois terroir, renowned for producing aromatic and full-bodied eaux-de-vie.
This Cognac was originally discovered when Benjamin was sea...
Read more about WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
Read more about WV Baker Rare Pale May Flower Fins Bois Cognac
WV Baker Today
In 2022, a decade after embarking on a spirited journey, Benjamin Baker founded WV Baker & Cie, a cognac house that is the embodiment of dedication to crafting unique and rare cognacs. Focused on unearthing the exceptional, WV Baker & Cie specializes in younger cognacs, a niche that remains relatively unexplored amidst the region's ancient spirits.
His back labels list the spirit's distiller/producer, along with the bottling date, bottling number, barrel number, and batch number to give full transparency on what was bottled.
The history of WV Baker
Benjamin Baker's origin story is as rich and complex as the cognacs he cherishes. The son of an English father and a French mother, his life has been a tapestry woven with the threads of two cultures. His fascination with flight led him to the vast skies of America's deserts, but it was love that ultimately charted his course back to the earthy vineyards of Cognac. After leaving a promising career in the French Air Force, Baker immersed himself in the art of distillation and cognac production, gleaning knowledge from renowned establishments like Distillerie Merlet et Fils, Cognac Grosperrin, and Bache-Gabrielsen.
Benjamin Baker's personal history is deeply entwined with that of WV Baker & Cie. His first offerings as an independent producer were from barrels of Colombard cognac, a rare grape variety in a region dominated by Ugni Blanc. These initial releases set the tone for the brand's focus on individuality and excellence, with each bottle carrying detailed information about its distiller, provenance, and creation, inviting enthusiasts to a world of discovery and appreciation for the single-barrel cognac's distinct identity.
See some blog posts related to WV Baker & Cie
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The 50 Best Cognacs of 2017
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Dec 11, 2018
International Wine & Spirits Competition: 2018 Winners
A great way to decide which new Cognacs you might like to try is by looking at those that win medals and accolades at the various industry competitions throughout the year. The latest to announce...