ABK6 Cognac

In Claix, south of Angoulême, ABK6 embodies a contemporary approach to Cognac whilst remaining deeply committed to the traditional expertise of the Charente region. The brand is part of Domaines Francis Abécassis, an independent, family-owned business that oversees every stage of the production of its eaux-de-vie.

Founded in 2005, ABK6 takes its name from Francis Abécassis in abbreviated form. The brand’s identity is rooted in a blend of modernity, family heritage and respect for tradition.

History and origins

Domaines Francis Abécassis was founded in 2005. The estate has gradually developed around a ‘Single Estate Cognac’ philosophy, prioritising a deep understanding of the terroirs and the various stages of production.

ABK6 now draws on several vineyards located in the Fins Bois, Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne crus. The vines are mainly planted with Ugni Blanc, the traditional grape variety of Cognac.

Expertise

What sets ABK6 apart is, in particular, its commitment to controlling the production process from the vineyard right through to ageing.

Wine-making takes place on site. Distillation is carried out in the estates’ own distilleries, using methods tailored to each terroir. The eaux-de-vie are then aged in the cellars before being selected and blended by the cellar master.

This approach allows the various stages of production to be monitored and ensures a precise expression of the eaux-de-vie.

The range

• ABK6 Cognac. The range includes, in particular, VS, VSOP and XO Cognacs, as well as more exclusive expressions. The ABK6 VS Pure Single, in particular, features woody and vanilla notes, accompanied by fresh fruit, white flowers and honey.
• ABK6 Ice Cognac. A expression designed to emphasise freshness and a fruity profile, with a lively, minty finish.
• Pineau des Charentes. The estates also offer a Pineau des Charentes as part of their range.
• ABK6 Family Estate. The company is also developing a collection of wines from vineyards in the Bordeaux region, under the ABK6 Family Estate brand.
• ABK6 Family Distillery Whisky. Since June 2026, ABK6 has also been offering a French single malt distilled and matured in Charente, extending its expertise in the spirits sector.

The flagship product

ABK6 Cognac is the product that best represents the house’s identity. ABK6 Cognacs are crafted from eaux-de-vie sourced from the family’s estates, then selected for their aromatic qualities.

When tasting, the younger expressions can be enjoyed on their own or used in cocktails. The older Cognacs are best savoured slowly, at room temperature, to allow their aromas to unfold gradually.

The visitor experience

ABK6 welcomes visitors to the Domaine de Chez Maillard in Claix.

The ‘from vine to glass of Cognac’ tour offers an insight into the vineyards, winemaking, the Charente double distillation process, the ageing cellars and the secrets of blending. It concludes with a guided tasting in the estate’s shop.

Additional experiences are also on offer: an escape game, a cellar master’s workshop, a cocktail-making workshop and bespoke wine tourism packages.

Where can you find the products?

The estate’s shop sells Cognacs and other products from the house.

Key points

Just a few kilometres from Angoulême, ABK6 offers a wonderful introduction to Cognac, allowing visitors to discover it directly in its production environment. Here, the tour is not limited to a tasting: it provides an insight into the link between the vineyard, Charente-style distillation, ageing and the work of the cellar master.

Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.