Described by Victor Hugo as a veritable nectar of the gods, cognac is the most prestigious ambassador for the gastronomy of Poitou-Charentes.

Composed of an alliance of several spirits, it is distilled twice to concentrate the most delicate flavours and aromas.

Along the Charente river, the association "Etapes du cognac" or stages of cognac suggests suggests five itineraries to reveal the secrets of its production - the ancestral skills that are still used today - and to discover the beautiful scenery and heritage of the area.

According to legend, the Pineau des Charentes is the result of the accidental addition of grape must to a cask of cognac. Since 1589, the Pineau des Charentes has been appreciated as an aperitif and an accompaniment to a meal.