Cognac Forgeron & HVE level 3 certification

What is HVE certification in winegrowing?

High Environmental Value (Haute Valeur Environnementale, HVE) is a certification awarded by the French State. It assesses the overall environmental performance of a farm against measurable criteria.

Unlike a simple declarative commitment, HVE certification relies on figures and independent audits.

It applies in particular to the vineyards that produce HVE-certified cognacs.

What does level 3 (HVE 3) mean?

HVE certification has three levels. Level 3 is the most demanding.

To obtain it, an estate must meet strict thresholds in four areas:

1. Preserving biodiversity

• Keeping hedges, copses and natural areas


• Grass cover between the vines


• Protecting natural beneficial insects

2. A controlled plant-protection strategy

• Reduced inputs


• Targeted, reasoned treatments


• Close monitoring of the vines

3. Responsible fertiliser management

• Optimised applications


• Regular soil analyses


• A natural balance encouraged

4. Sustainable water management

• Limiting run-off


• Protecting groundwater


• Controlling consumption

An HVE level 3 cognac therefore guarantees winegrowing with high environmental performance.

Why choose an HVE-certified cognac?

Choosing an HVE-certified cognac means supporting:

• Production that respects the environment


• A preserved terroir


• Sustainable agriculture in the Charente


• A long-term vision for the vineyard

A living, balanced soil directly influences the quality of the grapes. In Grande Champagne, this favours more precise, finer and more elegant eaux-de-vie.

HVE certification thus indirectly contributes to the aromatic quality of the cognac.

HVE vs organic farming: what is the difference?

Many people confuse HVE and organic.

HVE measures concrete results: biodiversity, water management, reduced inputs.

In a region like Cognac, with its specific climatic conditions, this approach allows sustainable winegrowing suited to the Charentais terroir.

Cognac Forgeron: a committed estate in Grande Champagne

Located in the heart of the First Cru, Cognac Forgeron belongs to a family tradition in which passing on the terroir is essential.

HVE level 3 certification confirms:

• A structured environmental commitment


• Reasoned management of the vineyard, farmers’ common sense above all!


• Sustainable production in Grande Champagne

This commitment continues a traditional know-how, combined with responsible modern practices.

How can you tell if a cognac is HVE-certified?

To identify an HVE level 3 cognac, look for:

• The official wording “Haute Valeur Environnementale”


• The HVE logo in the estate’s communication


• Transparency about winegrowing practices

Not all cognacs are HVE-certified. The certification remains a voluntary commitment.

Where can you discover an HVE cognac in Grande Champagne?

Visitors can discover the estate’s sustainable practices during visits to the property.

HVE level 3 certification is an integral part of Cognac Forgeron’s environmental identity, rooted in respect for the terroir and local biodiversity.

FAQ – HVE certification and Cognac

What is HVE level 3 certification?

It is the highest level of agricultural environmental certification in France, based on measurable performance indicators.

Is an HVE cognac better?

HVE certification concerns farming practices. It favours a living soil and quality grapes, which has a positive influence on the eau-de-vie.

Does HVE mean organic?

No. HVE and organic are two different certifications. HVE is based on an overall assessment of environmental performance.

Are all cognacs HVE?

No. The certification is voluntary and requires an independent audit.