Glimpse Into the Past With Ragnaud Sabourin Fontevieille No.35
Combining the fruits of well-developed grapevines with an extended maturation period, Ragnaud Sabourin Fontevieille No.35 is a Cognac that demands attention. While technically classed as an XO, the makers have indicated that the number 35 on the bottle is a code for the age, with ‘Fontevieille’ indicating that the eaux-de-vie have been produced from the oldest vines of the estate’s 33-hectare vineyard Domaine de la Voute. This expression has been crafted from a blend of three grape varieties: 60% Ugni Blanc grapes combined with 40% Folle Blanche and Colombard. The result is multifaceted and rich, displaying the very best characteristics of Grande Champagne.
The Ragnaud-Sabourin estate was founded in 1850 by Gaston Briand and his son-in-law Marcel Ragnaud. Today, Annie Ragnaud-Sabourin and her son Olivier carry on the family expertise, focusing exclusively on eaux-de-vie produced from their own vines. Sitting on a hill outside the village of Ambleville in the south of Grande Champagne, this wonderful estate may be small, but it is also one of the most prominent houses in Cognac, selling fine eaux-de-vie to a range of larger companies. However, they always make sure to keep the majority for themselves, which is why the House of Ragnaud-Sabourin boasts unusually large stocks of old Cognac – some of which predate the phylloxera epidemic. As a result, they are able to offer a wide selection of high-end releases.
Few houses dedicate themselves to such a long-term view on their production, but the Ragnaud-Sabourin family know how to plan ahead. The present stocks kept in their cellars represent around fifteen years of future sales – a long-term investment, but always worth the wait.
Presentation of the Bottle
The Ragnaud Sabourin Fontevieille No. 35 Cognac comes in a classically elegant slim bottle, with a vintage-style label featuring calligraphy text.
How to Enjoy Ragnaud Sabourin Fontevieille No. 35 Cognac
Sit back and relax; this is a slow sipper, perfect to end a meal or a long day. Gently let the Cognac breathe in a tulip glass before taking a sip, tasting the result of time and dedication.


