Country
Jenssen SAS is a cognac house founded in 2000 by the Norwegian Per Egil Jensen and located in the town of Bonneuil, France. The house launched its first products in July 2003.
In the mid-19th century the French geologist Henri Coquand noticed the striking correlation between the geological conditions of six areas of the Cognac region and the taste qualities of the grape varieties grown there. His conclusion: the limier the soil the better the cognac. Since 1938 these areas have been known as Grand Champagne, Petit Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois and Bois Ordinaires.
As its soil has the highest calcareous rock content, Grand Champagne is considered to be the best growing area in Cognac region, and the grape harvests of local vineyards are of the highest quality. Grand Champagne's favourable location between the Atlantic Ocean and the hills of the upper Charente valley give it its sunny and moderate climate, ideally suited to viniculture.
A meteorological centre located in the vineyard's centre registers changes in humidity, light levels and temperature, and a nearby laboratory analyses the results and facilitates prevention of pest outbreaks in the most environmentally friendly way. The harvest is collected in early October.
Those who know cognac well are able to tell the difference between cognacs produced from Baune grapes and those from the adjoining plains. Delicate, refined and colourful, Le Maine Pertubaud cognacs combine the skill of the estate's wine-makers with the advantages conferred by the area's exceptional natural conditions.
Jenssen cognacs are produced exclusively from white grape varieties. In 1870, following an outbreak of phylloxera (a disease affecting white grapes), which damaged all the vineyards of Cognac region, Ugni Blanc grapes were planted, and it is these grapes that are grown here to this day. Ugni Blanc is the main variety used in modern cognac production. Its advantages incude its delicate aroma, acidity and resistance against disease.
The combination of the region's naturally calciferous soils and its moderately warm, sunny climate has made Grand Champagne world-famous as a unique area, home of the great, incomparable French cognac. Cognac is produced exclusively from white Ugni Blanc grape varieties, which are the main grapes used in modern cognac production. The high quality and delicate taste of all cognacs in the Jenssen range are a result not only of their aging, but also of the house's highly developed production techniques and blending skills. Ancient honey vats, made manually by Grand Champagne artisans, are used to distil grape juice. This drink's greatness is founded on many years of tradition, passed down through the generations. This simple amber liquid remains a reflection of elegance and harmony.
