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This group of spirits, which produces the most exclusive cognac in the world, Louis XIII, is owned by a very discreet family. Exclusive visit in Charente.
By Beatrice Parrino
Excellency. Baptiste Loiseau, cellar master of the Louis XIII house, responsible for the aging of the most prestigious cognacs, proceeds to a statement of vintages at the Merpins estate (Charente).
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Reading time: 14 mins
On does not go to Saint-Même-les-Carrières, Charente village of 1,000 souls, by chance. The meeting is fixed at dusk. It is better to follow the recommendations of our host and equip yourself with “comfortable shoes”, in order to tame the huge gravel courtyard, poorly lit by small candles. Be careful not to go right, there would be “spiders”… Go straight. A few more meters. In the background, we guess a Charente farmhouse of the XVIe century. A curious ceremony awaits us there. Before pushing the heavy door, we promise the hosts not to take any photos. What are they afraid of? That we broadcast pictures of this “ultimate experience” to which we are invited, thus spoiling the surprise for future elected officials…
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