Originally a 10th-century fort, Château Royal de Cognac was the birthplace of King Francis the 1st and is now home to Cognac Otard. Baron Otard, who founded his Cognac House in 1795, purchased the château after it had fallen into disrepair and saved it from total destruction. He then proceeded to transform the old fortress into one of the most fascinating Cognac Houses.

Perched strategically on the banks of the Charente River, this architectural wonder, with its thick walls and high humidity environment, is the perfect place to age eaux-de-vie. Designed with Gothic and Renaissance Style influences, you can't help but feel like royalty when exploring this castle. What was once a prison is now a breathtaking ballroom and old dungeons are now home to some of cognacs finest eaux-de-vie. 

Château Royal de Cognac is also home to D'USSÉ. Crafted by Cellar Master Michel Cassavecchia, the focus of D'USSÉ is to create bold and smooth cognacs. Known by many as the Cognac of choice of Jay-Z, this young brand has quickly become mainstream among cognac consumers.

If you are a history and cognac lover, a visit to Château Royal de Cognac will make you feel like you hit the jackpot. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time when you visit so that you can soak in the royal treatment.