Maison Courvoisier Unveils Stunning Restoration Set to Inspire the Future
The esteemed Maison Courvoisier, renowned as the most awarded Cognac house, has officially emerged from an extensive multi-year restoration, poised to elevate the brand’s prominence on the global stage.
In collaboration with the acclaimed architecture and design agency Gilles & Boissier, the revitalized Maison, nestled in the heart of Jarnac and overlooking the picturesque Charente River, is set to welcome guests from around the world starting October 2024.
Originally constructed in 1857 and inspired by the iconic ‘Pavillon de Flore’ at the Louvre, the newly restored Maison honors nearly 200 years of history and craftsmanship. This ambitious project aims not only to celebrate Courvoisier’s legacy but also to embrace sustainability and local culture.
Ryan George, Senior Marketing Manager at Campari Group SA, expressed excitement over the unveiling, stating,
“This initiative strengthens our roots while enhancing our commitment to innovation and education.”
A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
The five-story building showcases an extraordinary fusion of Courvoisier’s heritage and contemporary design. Under the creative direction of husband-and-wife team Patrick Gilles and Dorothée Boissier, the restoration features meticulously curated spaces that reflect the surrounding vineyards and the unique terroir of the region.
Guests can immerse themselves in a stylish red bar lounge, designed as a “cabinet of curiosities,” where each element is thoughtfully selected to create an intimate atmosphere. The Cognac Tasting Room, adorned with a striking piece by etching artist François Houtin, offers a sensory experience that captures the essence of the landscape.
The Dining Room stands as the Maison’s centerpiece, featuring a grand palissandro marble table and intricately carved wood paneling. Exclusive Cognac pairing dinners will be hosted here, showcasing culinary talent alongside Courvoisier’s finest offerings.
Artistic Collaborations
The restoration has also seen the inclusion of artworks by both French and international artists, each interpreting the Courvoisier ethos through their unique lens. Isabelle Vignon, Courvoisier’s Historian, emphasized the significance of these contributions, stating, “The restoration seeks to rejuvenate the Maison’s soul with a contemporary touch, paying homage to our storied past.”
Gilles & Boissier have meticulously integrated elements that reflect the rich French heritage, while also ensuring the design resonates with the brand’s forward-looking vision. “We aimed to elevate what was already here, introducing new energy that embodies Courvoisier’s commitment to its legacy,” they stated.
A Toast to the Future
Maison Courvoisier’s restoration heralds a new chapter for the iconic Cognac house, merging tradition with innovation. While access to the Maison will be limited, visitors can expect exclusive tours and tastings, along with the opportunity to experience the Visitor Center, where they can taste from select barrels and even label their own bottles.
Augustin Depardon, Managing Director of the House of Cognac and Champagne at Campari Group, remarked on the importance of this project: “Standing proudly on the Charente River, Maison Courvoisier is a piece of French history that was in need of revival. This restoration pays homage to our past while setting the stage for a beautiful future.”
As Maison Courvoisier prepares to open its doors, it stands as a beacon of inspiration, inviting the world to experience the rich heritage and promising future of one of Cognac’s most storied houses.