BNIC’s “Station Viticole”

Founded in 1892 with the purpose of helping Cognac winegrowers plant vines grafted on rootstocks to replace those destroyed during the phylloxera crisis, the “Station Viticole” later became part of the BNIC in 1947. It works in conjunction with winegrowers and merchants on all aspects of Cognac production from planting vines until aging. It is also an important research institute recognized by the government, which collaborates with similar organizations in France and abroad.

Today, it is facing growing challenges in terms of the future of the Cognac region, the quality of wine spirits, and the industry’s ecological transition. In order to respond to these challenges, the R&D Unit is divided into 3 departments :

1. Guaranteeing sustainable production of high-quality grapes and wines

Grape varieties resistant to vine diseases, the future of the vineyard and production, and the quality of distilled wines were the three key projects led by the “Vineyard, Wines and Distillation” department of the BNIC R&D Unit in 2017 – 2018. The aim is to support the sustainable production of high-quality grapes, wines and wine spirits in order to meet market demand.

2. Knowing and defending products – quality, safety, and authenticity

Promoting high-quality products, protecting the health and safety of consumers, facilitating access to markets, guaranteeing product authenticity: the “Wine Spirits” department of the BNIC R&D Unit features a hi-tech laboratory and is internationally recognized for supporting the Cognac industry in sharing knowledge about Cognac.

3. Sustainable development

Based on sustainable development challenges, “sustainable viticulture”, “protecting natural resources” and “climate – energy” the BNIC R&D Unit develops innovative tools to manage the industry’s ecological transition within the framework of its Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility policy.