ALAMBIC, Jarnac-France
From the 11th Century, northern Europe navigators came by the Charente River to seek the salt and the white wine of the “Champagne” and the “Borderies”, areas of the Cognac city region. Later, the 16th century saw the Dutch arriving in Cognac port, again in search of the famous white wine. In order to occupy less space for the sea journey, the Dutch started using them in their newly established distilleries where they were transformed into “brandwijn” – burnt wine – hence the name “Brandy”. Legend has it that at nightfall these northern European sailors, great lovers of beer, would secretly open the barrels of precious Cognac to steal a few drops for their beer. One single objective: to enhance the beer. Voila! Cognac, king of spirits, is born. Today ALAMBIC brings back the legend!

Jean-Yves Malpote - ALAMBIC Brewer Master