Just stumbled on this thread which is unfortunate as I've been in the Charente (Maritime version - a.k.a dept 17) for the past month+. Seems pineau de charente is the favored drink here as 5/6th of Cognac production is exported (and not that much available either - locals seem to prefer scottish whiskey for new years by a long mile). Been drinking the local bois ordinaire stuff as I am out near the coast and not inland where the vaunted Grand and Petit champagne areas are.