The village of Cognac, in western France, is the heart of the region that provides the world with the elegant spirit that bears its name. Here is the tasting room at Remy Martin, one of the major Cognac makers. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
A Cognac bar in the center of the village of the same name. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
Hennessy cellars are filled not only with barrels but also a heady Cognac aroma. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
Riverside in Cognac at Hennessy cellars, visitors head toward a boat. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
Glasses are arranged for a tasting of various aged Cognacs at Hennessy’s offices. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
Tours introduce visitors to Cognac at Martell, one of the large Cognac houses. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
An epicurean shop offers specialties of Cognac. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
A scene along a street in the historic center of Cognac, France. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
The village of Jarnac, France, straddles the Charente River and is home to major Cognac house Courvoisier, which offers tours of its brandy-making process. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
Riverside views in the village of Jarnac near Courvoisier. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
An assortment of aged eaux de vie at Courvoisier. (Rosemary McClure / For The Times)
