Normandin-Mercier

  • Normandin-Mercier: A Legacy of Fine Cognac Craftsmanship
    In the world of Cognac, where heritage and tradition intertwine with meticulous craftsmanship, Normandin-Mercier stands as a testament to time-honored excellence. Nestled in the heart of the Charente region, just outside of La Rochelle, this esteemed house has been producing some of the finest Cognac for over a century. For connoisseurs and curious travelers alike, a visit to Normandin-Mercier offers more than just a glimpse into the art of Cognac making—it is an immersion into the rich history and soul of this iconic French spirit.
    A Storied Past: Five Generations of Passion
    The story of Normandin-Mercier begins in 1872 when Jules Normandin, a visionary with a deep passion for Cognac, founded the house. His ambition was simple yet profound: to create exceptional Cognacs that embodied the spirit and elegance of the region. Over the years, the reins of the estate were passed down through five generations, each adding their unique touch while preserving the original vision.

    Today, Normandin-Mercier remains a family-run business, with Edouard Normandin at the helm. Under his guidance, the house continues to balance innovation with tradition, ensuring that every bottle reflects the unique terroir and meticulous craftsmanship that has been the hallmark of Normandin-Mercier for over 150 years.

    The Art of Cognac Making: From Vine to Glass
    At Normandin-Mercier, the process of crafting Cognac is both an art and a science. The estate sources its grapes from the finest vineyards in the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne regions, known for their chalky soils and ideal climate conditions. These regions, are classified as the premier crus of Cognac.

    Once harvested, the grapes undergo a double distillation in traditional copper pot stills. This process, carried out with precision and care, ensures the purity and richness of the eaux-de-vie. The resulting spirit is then aged in French oak barrels, where it develops its distinctive character and depth over the years. The cellars of Normandin-Mercier, with their thick stone walls and ideal humidity, provide the perfect environment for aging, allowing the Cognac to mature gracefully.

  • A Journey of the Senses: Tours and Tastings
    A visit to Normandin-Mercier is not just a tour—it is a journey into the heart of Cognac. Guests are welcomed into the historic estate, where they can explore the cellars that have aged some of the world's finest spirits. The tour offers an in-depth look at the Cognac-making process, from the vineyards to the distillation and aging, with knowledgeable guides who share stories of the estate's rich heritage and the nuances of each stage of production.

    The tasting experience at Normandin-Mercier is where the magic truly unfolds. In the elegant tasting room, guests are invited to savor a selection of the house’s finest Cognacs, each offering a unique expression of the terroir and the craftsmanship behind it. Whether it’s the delicate floral notes of a VSOP or the deep, complex flavors of an XO, the tasting is a sensory exploration that leaves a lasting impression. Guests also have the opportunity to sample Pineaux des Charentes, a traditional French aperitif wine.

    For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a visit to Normandin-Mercier is more than just an exploration of Cognac—it is an invitation to become part of a rich and enduring legacy.

    Plan Your Visit
    To book an appointment at Normandin-Mercier, you can reach out via email at info@cognacnm.fr or phone at 0546680065.