The French Kiss

The French KissAbout 800 feet above French soil, I feel the panic start to set in. I'm in the rear seat of a red-and-white Robin DR400 single-prop airplane, the meekest vehicle I've ever encountered. The little wings flap in the breeze. The engine buzzes like a gnat. I need a drink, and in that regard only, I'm in the right place.On my left sits Jason Bowden, the sharp-witted English brand ambassador for Rémy Martin cognac, whose lanky frame and pale shade make him look like a handsome Q-tip. At...