1 hour drive from La Maillerie
Cognac, the stately town in the region of the same name. Like its eponymous tipple, the town is an artful blend: part dramatic history, part contemporary style.
Drift Along
This is a walking town of narrow footpaths and airy squares. Stroll Boulevard Denfert-Rochereau to the garden behind Le Musee d’Art et d’Histoire (48 Boulevard Denfert-Rochereau; +33-5-45-32-07-25), then head in the other direction to Les Halles, the market where the dazzling produce resembles a series of still lifes. Pack a picnic to take on La Dame Jeanne (l’Office de Tourisme de Cognac, 16 Rue
du 14 Juillet; +33-5-45-82-10-71), a flat-bottomed boat that navigates the river for cinematic views of vineyards, castles, and fortresses.
Sniff
Barrels of eau-de-vie can sit for decades before they’re precisely blended to create precious spirits. Learn about it at Musée des Arts du Cognac (Les Remparts, Place de la Salle Verte; +33-5-45-32-07-25), then taste at the Martell Visitor Centre (7 Place Edouard Martell; +33-5-45-36-33-33). Or
take a boat from Quai Hennessy to the majestic Hennessy property (+33-5-45-35-72-68), where guides lead you through a cellar and art gallery before letting you sample from the pot — rather, barrel — of
liquid gold.
Fork Lift
What’s better than a great hotel? One that serves a great dinner (so easy to find your way home). Have regional nibbles in the garden at the funky Le Restaurant in Hôtel Heritage and meticulously
prepared dishes at the Château de l’Yeuse restaurant. While you’re out, hit Le Globe (15 Place François 1er; +33-5-45-82-00-56) for paper-thin crepes.
Spend, Swift!
This is France, after all. Styles (5 Rue Neuve des Remparts; +33-5-45-82-17-31) stocks
elegant fashions straight off the Parisian racks — minus Parisian prices. And don’t leave without visiting La Cognathèque (10 Place Jean Monnet; +33-5-45-82-43-31) for delicate glassware and 400 bottles.
Now that’s the spirit.
From: September 12, 2007 Daily Candy online: In Fine Spirits
