Cognac Castle

This 9th-century fortress is the birthplace of Francis I. Seized as national property during the French Revolution, the Château de Cognac was sold in 1796 to Baron Otard, mayor of Cognac and deputy for the Charente department.

Baron Otard acquired the monument for its vaulted cellars, built against the rock and the old city walls, and for its walls, over 3 meters thick, which provide ideal aging conditions for Cognac. Today, Cognac aged at the château still bears the Baron's name, and the former fortress has been largely repurposed for the production of this precious spirit.

Discover the world of Cognac, from distillation to aging. Visit the Otard Museum and the cellars with a tasting.