Agathe Boinot has been appointed as cellar master for D’USSÉ Cognac. Boinot is the second cellar master in the Cognac house’s history, taking over from Michel Casavecchia, who retired earlier this month.

 

Founded by rapper JAY-Z and spirits company Bacardi and conceived by Casavecchia, D’USSÉ has been producing its Cognac since 2012. Boinot joined the company as an apprentice under Casavecchia, whom she now succeeds as the lead on the brand’s innovation and products. 

 

The appointment of Boinot makes her the youngest female cellar master of the major Cognac houses, according to D’USSÉ. Boinot reflected: “Becoming cellar master is a great responsibility and I am honoured at the chance to uphold the brand’s heritage while bringing my own passions, expertise, and philosophies to the next chapter of D'USSÉ. 

 

“In this position, I will champion representation for women in Cognac, who have played an important but largely invisible role. I aim to bring visibility to our work, inviting more women and younger generations to Cognac’s possibilities in the process.”

 

D’USSÉ is styled as a modern Cognac which according to Boinot has “transcended the age-old conventions” of the spirit. The brand’s portfolio includes VSOP and XO expressions. The brand’s most premium bottling, its 1969 Anniversaire Limited Edition, was released in 2021 and retailed for more than US$10,000.

 

Jennifer Pisciotta, global VP of D'USSÉ, said: “Michel has left an undeniable mark on the present and future of Cognac. We thank him for his incredible vision and look forward to the exciting work Agathe will lead during her tenure.”