In the 1970s, Heaven Hill took a strategic step into the world of Cognac through a partnership with French spirits producer Maison Ansac. With a single container of the brand Ansac, we began what would become one of our most enduring international partnerships, grounded in mutual trust, steady growth, and a shared belief in doing things the right way, together.

Known for fine Cognac made from grapes sourced in the Petite Champagne and Fins Bois regions, Maison Ansac’s expressions are distilled and aged in France, delivering smooth and approachable profiles. With strong roots in France, and looking to expand into the US, Maison Ansac approached Heaven Hill in the 1970s to represent Ansac Cognac in select markets across the United States, starting small with just one container ( ~1,000 cases).

“We started off cautiously,” recalls Executive Chairman Max Shapira, reflecting on those early days. “It was new territory for us, representing a brand we didn’t own. But we believed in the opportunity and more importantly, in the people.”

That leap of faith paid off. Ansac grew from being a nearly zero-case brand to, at its peak, selling 30,000 cases in the United States, becoming a niche part of Heaven Hill’s import agency portfolio—spirits brands that are sourced from international or other producers and distributed domestically. Today, Ansac remains our only Cognac and a critical utility brand that continues to fill a unique role in our broader portfolio strategy.

To mark our 90th anniversary, senior leaders from Maison Ansac made the journey to Louisville touring our new office, visiting the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, and sharing in a day of celebration that underscored the enduring nature of our bond. As a gesture of gratitude and legacy, they presented a custom-designed bottle of extra-aged cognac to Max Shapira, an emblem not just of aging excellence, but of the lasting relationship we’ve built.

“It was awesome,” said Max Gerdes, Associate Brand Manager, Foundational Brands. “We walked through where we’ve been and where we’re headed. This partnership has been part of that growth, and it was meaningful to show them what they’ve helped us build.”

Whether navigating market changes or raising a glass to shared milestones, our partnership with Maison Ansac is proof of what’s possible when two businesses invest in one another patiently, purposefully, and with people at the center.