Cognac is a spirit most closely associated with the vineyards of southwestern France, where it’s been crafted for centuries. Yet, there’s a fascinating chapter of Cognac history that ties the world-famous spirit to a country far to the north—Norway. While Norway is best known for its fjords and aquavit, it has a unique connection to Cognac through four major Cognac houses in France, owned and operated by Norwegian families who have made a significant impact on the industry: Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann.
These houses have long played an important role in producing high-quality Cognacs, with a particular emphasis on exporting to Scandinavian markets. Let’s take a closer look at how these Norwegian houses have blended Nordic business savvy with French Cognac-making traditions.
How Norwegian Families Came to Dominate Their Own Cognac Houses
The relationship between Norway and Cognac began in the 19th century, as trade between northern Europe and France flourished. Cognac became increasingly popular in Scandinavia, thanks in part to the strong shipping and trading routes established by Norway’s merchant fleets. As Norwegian businessmen saw the potential in importing high-quality spirits from France, some chose to invest directly in the industry, acquiring and founding Cognac houses in France.
Over time, Norwegian-owned Cognac houses became deeply ingrained in the Cognac landscape, with their products becoming staples both in Norway and across the world. Today, four key houses—Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann—remain the best-known Norwegian Cognac brands, each with its own unique story and approach to Cognac production.
Bache-Gabrielsen: Norwegian Roots, French Soul
Founded: 1905
Signature Cognacs: Bache-Gabrielsen VS, VSOP, XO, Natur & Eleganse, Aquavit Cask Finish
One of the most well-known and successful Norwegian Cognac houses is Bache-Gabrielsen, founded in 1905 by Thomas Bache-Gabrielsen, a young Norwegian lieutenant who settled in Cognac, France. Partnering with fellow Norwegian Peter Rustad, they purchased a small Cognac house and began producing under the Bache-Gabrielsen name.
Today, the house is still family-owned, with Thomas’s descendants running the business. Hervé Bache-Gabrielsen, the fourth generation, continues to oversee production, ensuring the house’s continued success. Bache-Gabrielsen is particularly known for its innovative approach to Cognac-making, combining traditional methods with more modern influences. For instance, their Aquavit Cask Finish Cognac pays homage to their Norwegian roots by finishing the Cognac in barrels that once held aquavit.
Bache-Gabrielsen enjoys a strong following in Scandinavia, especially in Norway, where it is one of the most popular Cognac brands. Its range includes everything from classic VS, VSOP, and XO Cognacs to more modern, experimental releases, such as the Natur & Eleganse line, which is made without added caramel coloring.
Braastad: Tradition and Quality from the Tiffon Estate
Founded: 1913
Signature Cognacs: Braastad VS, VSOP, XO, Braastad Napoleon, Braastad Extra
Braastad Cognac is closely linked to the historic Tiffon Cognac house, which was founded in 1875. The connection to Norway began in 1913 when Sverre Braastad, a Norwegian, married into the Tiffon family and took over management of the estate. Since then, the house has been known as Braastad in Scandinavian markets, while still maintaining its original Tiffon branding in other parts of the world.
Located in Jarnac, in the heart of the Cognac region, Braastad has developed a reputation for producing traditional, high-quality Cognacs with a rich and complex character. The house remains a family-run operation, with the Braastad family continuing to oversee the blending and aging of the Cognac.
Braastad offers a full range of Cognacs, from accessible VS and VSOP expressions to its more premium Napoleon and XO offerings. These Cognacs are known for their balance, with rich fruit notes, smooth textures, and well-integrated oak flavors. Braastad is particularly well-loved in Norway and other Scandinavian countries, where its classic approach to Cognac production resonates with drinkers who appreciate quality and tradition.
Larsen: The Cognac of the Vikings
Founded: 1926
Signature Cognacs: Larsen VS, VSOP, XO, Viking Ship Editions
Larsen Cognac is one of the most distinctive Norwegian-owned houses, founded by Jens Reidar Larsen in 1926. Originally from Norway, Larsen moved to France and fell in love with Cognac, eventually starting his own house in the region. His vision was to create a fruitier, more delicate style of Cognac, one that would appeal to the Scandinavian palate.
Larsen’s Cognacs are often described as aromatic and elegant, with a focus on fresh fruit flavors. The house is perhaps best known for its Viking Ship bottles, which have become iconic among collectors. These bottles, shaped like traditional Viking ships, symbolize the strong connection between Larsen’s Norwegian heritage and its French craftsmanship.
While Larsen is popular in Norway and other parts of Scandinavia, it has also gained a global following, particularly for its VS and VSOP expressions, which are known for their bright, floral aromas and smooth finishes. The house’s XO Cognac, aged for a longer period, offers a richer, more complex experience, with notes of dried fruit, spices, and oak.
Birkedal-Hartmann: A Modern Innovator
Founded: 1887
Signature Cognacs: Birkedal-Hartmann VSOP, XO, Symposium
Birkedal-Hartmann is one of the oldest Norwegian Cognac houses, founded in 1887 by Halfdan Birkedal-Hartmann, a Norwegian who moved to France and established his own brand. Over the years, the house has developed a reputation for producing high-quality, well-crafted Cognacs that appeal to both traditional Cognac drinkers and those looking for something more contemporary.
Birkedal-Hartmann is known for its commitment to innovation, often blending tradition with new ideas. One of its most notable achievements is the creation of Symposium, a premium Cognac range that has received praise for its refined and balanced flavor profile. The house focuses heavily on creating smooth, approachable Cognacs that offer a rich sensory experience without overwhelming the palate.
Birkedal-Hartmann has a strong presence in the Scandinavian market, but its reach extends globally, with its Cognacs available in several countries. The house continues to emphasize the importance of quality and consistency, ensuring that every bottle reflects the legacy of craftsmanship established by its Norwegian founder.
Norway’s Lasting Legacy in Cognac
The story of Norwegian Cognac houses is a fascinating example of how cross-cultural influences can enrich a traditional industry. Through their passion for the spirit and their business acumen, Norwegian families have made their mark on the Cognac world, blending French craftsmanship with Scandinavian heritage.
Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann each offer something unique, whether it’s Bache-Gabrielsen’s innovative approach, Braastad’s deep roots in traditional Cognac-making, Larsen’s Viking-inspired style, or Birkedal-Hartmann’s modern flair. Together, these houses have helped to shape the global Cognac market, ensuring that Norwegian influence continues to be felt in the world of fine spirits.
For those looking to explore Cognac with a touch of Nordic history, these houses offer a rich journey into the world of premium spirits. Whether enjoyed neat, in a cocktail, or as a special occasion drink, Norwegian Cognac houses remain an important part of the industry’s legacy and future.