Win a tasting trip for two to Cognac worth £3,000

When it comes to exploring the history, region and nuances of France’s most prestigious vineyards and wines, Grape Escapes are the experts

Cognac, the amber elixir from the heart of France, is not just a drink; it's a celebration of craftsmanship, history and the terroir of the region, with each bottle telling its own story. Selecting a Cognac is like choosing a travel destination – there’s a world of flavours waiting to be explored, from a part of France that’s so wonderful to visit, close to Bordeaux, La Rochelle and the country’s stunning western coastline.

Once considered exclusively a gentleman’s drink, Cognac’s versatility is on an upward trend, being the key ingredient in flamboyant cocktails and an ideal accompaniment to many foods (think: a drizzle over a rich chocolate dessert or a splash in a flambé dish). It has the benefits of centuries of refined production techniques, and the distinctions between VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) and XO (Extra Old) indicate an evolving depth of character.

Visiting a Cognac house is an extraordinary experience in itself, and our competition winner will enjoy a fully immersive three- night trip for two people. Picture yourself touring the historic cellars, led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories of the ancient traditions that still reverberate through the distilleries. The air is heavy with sweet scent, while tastings invite you to savour every sip – unravelling flavours that excite the palate and linger for a long time after, as you enjoy samples, some of them taken direct from the barrel. Many offer paired gastronomic fine dining to heighten the experience.

The curious and the adventurous – and anyone with a penchant for travel – can explore the wonders of Cognac with Grape Escapes, a leading specialist wine tour operator, curating luxury wine holidays in Europe’s premium regions. Enjoy exclusive experiences at world-renowned Cognac houses and distilleries such as Hennessy, Rémy Martin and Château de Cognac – home to Baron Otard Cognacs.

Delight in high-end gastronomic experiences and fine dining and stay in luxury hotels such as Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa, a 104-room sophisticated abode bang in the middle of Cognac and offering a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, along with a contemporary brasserie, jazz bar and rooftop lounge. Take the opportunity to explore the scenic and tranquil town on the Charente river, on foot, by e-bike or even by boat.

Grape Escapes offer a range of tours in Cognac to suit all tastes and budgets, whether it’s a whistlestop weekend or a luxury experience. There’s Maison Hennessy, producing one- of-a-kind Cognacs since 1765. Discover some of the secrets behind the Maison’s time-honored craftsmanship and rituals, passed down by generations. Then there’s the House of Rémy Martin, the family-run company guided by an unwavering faith in the potential of Grande and Petite Champagne for 300 years. And Château de Cognac, birthplace of one of France’s most illustrious kings, Francois I, and now a testimony to French history. With Cognac’s proximity to Bordeaux, perhaps try a two- in-one trip, taking in Bordeaux’s vineyards and Cognac’s distilleries. grapeescapes.net

Prize

The winner will receive a three-night trip to France for two people, valid until 31 December 2025, subject to availability. The prize includes two direct return flights from the UK to Bordeaux, private return transfers to your hotel, two nights with breakfast at the five-star Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa in Cognac, and a private transfer from Cognac to La Rochelle, followed by one night with breakfast at the four-star Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites, La Rochelle. The trip includes: a Hennessy XO immersive tour and tasting of Hennessy XO neat, on the rocks and in a cocktail; a Rémy Martin 300th anniversary immersive tour and tasting of VSOP and XO Cognacs, paired with gourmet snacks; and a Château de Cognac ‘Secrets of the Cellar experience’: tour and tastings of Baron Otard VSOP, XO and EXTRA. The competition closes on 28 March 2025 at 5pm. Winners must be over 18 and the prize is non-transferable, subject to availability, and cannot be exchanged for cash.

How to Enter