Cognac
Origins
Cognac is one of the many brandy spirits popular in the world. Brandy is a category of spirits that are made from grapes and other fruits instead of from cereal grains or vegetal plants. All spirits either start as either a wine or a beer during the fermentation process and then move on to distillation. Cognac, and all brandies, start as a wine base before they go into that distillation phase of production.
Cognac itself gets its. name from the Cognac region in France where it is produced. Like many spirits, Cognac came into existence when wines were distilled to increase their lifespan when being shipped around the world. For Cognac, this method became increasing popular in the 17th century.
There are several categories for aging cognac as well:
VS (Very Special) - aged at least two years
VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale)- aged at least four years
Napoleon - aged at least six years
XO - aged at least 10 years
XXO - aged at least 14 years
What Makes it Cognac
How is it made?
Cognac is made from Ugni Blanc grapes (mainly because few other grapes grow in this region). These grapes don’t impart large flavors, but they d0 maintain their acidic and fruity qualities after distillation. The soil in this region also has tons of limestone which allows for these flavors to flourish as well.
Legal Specifications?
• Made from the Ugni Blanc grape (95% min.) Folle Blanche and Colombard may also be used in small amounts
• Twice distilled in pot stills
• Aged in Limousin Oak barrels for two years min.
• All grapes and aging must take place in the Cognac Region of France.
Where can it be made?
Cognac, France
Six Districts where it can be produced:
Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois, and Bois à Terroirs
Tasting Notes &
Popular Expressions
Cognac is a fantastic expression of what a brandy can be when treated exceptionally well! Common flavors of Cognacs include oak, dried teas, spice cake, ripe grapes, jams, and toffee.
Suggested Brands - Pierre Ferrand, Hine, & Martell
Suggested Cocktails - Sidecar, Stinger, Between the Sheets, & Vieux Carre