with correspondents in Japan, Russia, USA, Sweden; edited by M.Andrew, FIJEV

After 15 years of a very pleasant and personalized visitor tour at their Chateau in Jarnac, Courvoisier has upgraded their tour facilities. It is modern, spacious, very comfortable with great view of river Charente. Our favorite is the "Corridor of Angel's Share", a short walk between barrels of eaux-de-vie with its aromas. Video, although follows the style and content of many others, is short, to the point and well executed. The shop is bright and comfortable but as a retail place it needs more product displays taking advantage of space. It needs to entice a visitor to buy rather than to browse. While browsing, go to the furthest right corner at the back to spot L'Esprit de Courvoisier at FRF30,000. It is worth it! Catherine Mattei, Michele and the team created a pleasant facilities that tell the story of Courvoisier while maintaining their friendly personalized style.

Last year Courvoisier had about 10,000 visitors. In 2002, they expect to triple it. An ambitious target that with a bit of advertising and promotion is achievable.

Visitor Tour is open May through September, every day from 11:00 to 19:00 except Saturdays in May and September. It is free. (All photos courtesy of Courvoisier S.A.)

16 June 2001