We continue to explore cognacs as we open a Prunier Horizon Cognac, the ninth sample from our Cognac-Expert Advent Calendar. Even though Maison Prunier was founded in 1769, you can trace its origins to 1665, when Jean Prunier, a renowned Cognac expert from La Rochelle, began producing wine and eaux-de-vie. By the early 1700s, he was exporting his products globally, establishing Cognac Prunier. His son, Gabriel, and later his grandson, also named Jean, carried on the family’s legacy. François Prunier expanded the business by acquiring vineyards near St-Jean-d’Angély and settling the operation in Cognac in the early 1800s.
The third Jean Prunier’s three sons – Alphonse, Marcel, and Gaston – continued the tradition. Alphonse led the company, Marcel managed European representation, and Gaston founded a branch in Melbourne, Australia. After Alphonse’s death in 1918, his widow enlisted her nephew, Jean Burnez, to lead the business. Jean’s son, Claude Burnez (1927–2011), later succeeded him, passing leadership to his wife, Susan, in 1987. In 2009, their son Stéphane Burnez took over, joined by his daughter Alice in 2016.
Now in its sixth generation, Cognac Prunier remains family-run and based in the same medieval building in Cognac for over two centuries. The company produces a wide range of Cognacs and eaux-de-vie, honouring long-standing traditions. Their offerings span from 2-year-old Cognacs to XO blends, reflecting their commitment to quality and heritage. Let’s review this Prunier Horizon Fine Champagne Cognac now, shall we?
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