Victor Hugo called it the "brandy of the gods." It is a universal symbol of high refinement and quality. Often expensive, always classy, Cognac is the gift of gifts--the best of the best--to mark a grand success. And just as remarkable as this coveted amber-hued nectar is its epic tale. More than once, this great drink faced certain doom at the hands of despotic sovereigns, soft-headed politicians, and greedy businessmen--not to mention Mother Nature--but incredible twists of fate rescued it each time and helped seal its glorious future.
Cognac is the first comprehensive history of this celebrated spirit, charting its origins in the Charente wine region of southwestern France and turbulent growing pains to its present-day status as a multimillion-dollar worldwide business. Kyle Jarrard lays out a winding journey through Cognac country filled with a colorful cast of characters who had a hand, one way or another, in shaping its destiny--from Romans, Vikings, and kings and princes of En
