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Deep Dive Merlet Cognac
A Timeless Tale of Tradition and Taste
Discovering Merlet Cognac
Merlet Cognac, a name that resonates with the rich history of the Cognac region, is a brand that has been passed down through five generations. The Merlet family has been producing wine since the 18th century, and in 1850, Firmin Merlet set up his first still just outside the village of Saint Sauvant in the region of Saintonge to distill his own harvests. His successor, Edouard, became the first member of the family to provide fine eaux-de-vie to large cognac houses such as Hennessy, and the tradition was carried on by Guy Merlet, who expanded the distillery.
The Merlet Legacy
The Merlet family has always been respectful of the Saintonge terroir, producing unique eaux-de-vie that capture the essence of the region. From the copper still to oak barrels, time is the alchemist that lets their eaux-de-vie blossom into harmonious cognacs.
When Gilles Merlet took over the distillery in 1973, the context was difficult for cognac and planting new vines on the family plots was no longer an option. Faced with this heart-breaking reality, he began extensive testing of alternative crops. He came up with a great idea: planting blackcurrant. A real challenge in a region exclusively dedicated to vines and cognac.
The first shrubs were planted in 1979 and success soon followed: the quality of the berries was so exceptional that Gilles, using the family know-how, was able to develop his own crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur), the Crème de Cassis de Saintonge, in 1983. It’s not just the liqueur that was born then: this date also marks the first appearance of the Merlet brand. The Crème de Cassis de Saintonge was quickly followed by a complete range of fruit liqueurs, now widely acclaimed. Since 2015, there even is a Geographical Indication (GI) Crème de Cassis de Saintonge, with its own legal specifications. A genuine recognition of quality!
The New Generation
Between 2005 and 2008, Pierre and Luc, Gilles Merlet’s sons, decided to get involved in the activities of the distillery. The very experienced Gilles remained at the helm to pass on his know-how and thirst for innovation.
Pierre spends most of his time working on the production and quality of the Merlet range, while Luc takes charge of its commercialization and marketing. The new generation follows in the footsteps of their father, but also brings a new vision to the Merlet range.
Under the leadership of Gilles and his sons, the brand has kept on growing. In 2009, after numerous tests, they successfully pursued one of Gilles’ old projects: combining his distilling and liquor making expertise in one product.
The C² range was born. Then, after 160 years distilling for large cognac houses, they decided to develop their own cognac. And so in 2010, the Brothers Blend Cognac was launched – it has since been followed by a whole range and some unique cuvées. While developing these new products, the Merlets never stopped working on their first loves: with Lune d’Abricot, Trois Citrus and Soeurs Cerises, the liqueur range has never stopped expanding.
The Merlet Distillery and Vineyards
The Merlet family’s 40 hectares of vineyards are divided between Saint Sauvant and Chérac. Le Droguet, in Chérac, was bought by the Merlets in 1936. It once belonged to Baron Otard (of the cognac of the same name). At the heart of Borderies, vineyards, blackcurrant fields and woods surround the family house.
The village of Saint Sauvant is Merlet’s haven. The distillery was built at L’aumônerie de Chevessac in 1850. The old family property now houses Merlet’s offices, a short walk from the 12th century Romanesque church that proudly towers over the village.
The fruit macerations for the liqueurs and the blending of all spirits take place in the new cellars inaugurated in 2014. The Chérac site also houses the bottling facility.
The Merlet Philosophy & Range
While the new generation of Merlets continues to honor their father's legacy, they also infuse their own innovative ideas into the brand. They breathed life into one of Gilles' unrealized dreams, skillfully merging his distilling and liquor crafting skills into a singular product. Despite their focus on innovation, they never lost sight of their original passion. Their dedication is evident in the continuous expansion of their liqueur range, which includes beloved classics like Lune d’Abricot, Trois Citrus, and Soeurs Cerises.
The Merlet range is the outcome of five generations of expertise. It was built by successfully combining tradition and innovation. It is made of cognacs and elegant and versatile eaux-de-vie, natural fruit liqueurs with powerful aromas, liqueurs combining cognac with the freshness of the fruit, and finally Pineau des Charentes, an authentic terroir product.
New Merlet Cognacs
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Please note: Merlet order will be shipped mid of August.
Conclusion
Merlet Cognac is a testament to the power of tradition, innovation, and family. With a history that spans over 160 years and a range of products that capture the essence of the Saintonge terroir, Merlet Cognac is a brand that stands out in the world of spirits. Whether you're a cognac connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of spirits, Merlet Cognac offers a unique experience that is sure to delight your palate.
