In this 1998 study of the brandy trade and its merchants, Professor Cullen explores the development of cognac, the world's most famous spirit product, which emerged as a consequence of a chronic wine surplus. While Professor Cullen focuses on the brandy trade, his findings contradict the view of a 'static' French economy in the eighteenth century. Professor Cullen shows that the brandy trade was based on a sophisticated regional economy, which, by 1720, had become a key component of French involvement in the modern international trading system. Notwithstanding the competition supplied by the emergence of surplus in other cereals and by foreign markets, regional specialisation in the Charente was an indispensable element in ensuring the quality of stable output, and was recognised in the region's success in attracting foreign negociants, such as the household names of Martell and Hennessy.

A 1998 study of the brandy trade, its merchants, and its impact on the French economy under the ancien regime.
Reviews
"...a finely crafted monograph on an important topic." Thomas J. Schaeper, American Historical Review
"...fascinating study of the brandy trade....The material is enormously rich....this is a thoughtful book about an important topic. This book makes a real contribution to the subject." Thomas Brennan, Journal of Modern History


Awards
Winner of Samuel Champlain Prize 1999.



Book Information
ISBN 9780521592482
Author L. M. Cullen
Format Hardback
Page Count 304
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 580g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 157mm * 23mm