when the growers of cognac were facing a crisis over the price of grapes they turned to the co-operatives, and the one which is now the blueprint for good French co-ops has to be unicognac.unicognac has an ideal structure, employing many great winemakers and consultants to work closely with the growers to improve production techniques continually. now the vin de pays charentais (one of the newest vins de pays) is facing a surge in winemaking and is proving to have high quality terroir for vines. it is on the atlantic coast, and the climate is marked by oceanic influences which warm up and regulate temperatures, resulting in late summer seasons which are highly beneficial for grape ripening. the talented winemaker vincent is best known for his work in the médoc and is working wonders in this fantastic new venture, especially with the thalassa wines. the sauvignon blanc is grassy, with lemons and limes on the palate and a crisp finish, and the merlot is wonderfully fruity with plums and strawberries on the nose complemented with subtle spices.

pineau des charentes is also a speciality if unicongnac, through their jules gautret label. to make this, one year old cognac is added, from cask, to the grape just before it ferments. this creates a delicious, slightly sweet brandy and grape juice blend that is aged in oak until the following harvest. pineau des charentes is gaining a new following in france and jules gautret is the leading brand. it matches well with many different foods and is a popular aperitif.

thalassa sauvignon blanc 2006
thlassa merlot fût de chêne 2005
pineau des charentes blanc jules gautret
pineau des charentes rosé jules gautret

"big fresh grass and citrus nose. lovely ripe green fruit on the palate, with well balanced refreshing acidity and subtle minerality. easy drinking in style." thalassa sauvignon blanc peter gordon-smith, 2007

"rich plum and vanilla nose, with a smooth ripe plum and damson palate. gentle tannins and well integrated oak." thalassa merlot peter gordon-smith, 2007

email for your nearest stockist/distributor: info@emporiabrands.com