What Is Cognac?

Cognac is a type of brandy, a spirits classification which is aged in oak barrels and created from the distillation of grapes. It is produced in the Cognac region of France and has been popular since the 1600s when it began to be developed. Its identifiable taste and iconic bottle shape made it a notable status symbol and it has been enjoyed by many all over the world ever since.

The Production of Cognac

The actual production of Cognac takes several stages and is quite an intricate process. It begins by distilling white wine which can only be produced in specific regions of France in order to be classified as Cognac. The distillation must take place in copper pot-stills and any spirit producing over 72% alcohol by volume (ABV) must be distilled again in order to meet the set requirements of Cognac.

Once this stage is complete, the spirits are matured in oak barrels for at least two years although a Cognac must be aged for at least four years before it can be labelled as an aged Cognac. Throughout this maturation process the barrels will be carefully checked and the blend will be altered or tweaked until the perfect final product, or eau-de-vie, is achieved.

The Taste and Quality of Cognac

The grape varietals and production process involved in making Cognac means that it has a unique taste compared to other spirits. It is aromatic and bold with a long finish, with notes of fruits, flowers, toasted almond and even tobacco and leather. Cognac is also divided into different quality classifications, with the highest being ‘X.O.’ (or ‘Extra Old’) which denotes any Cognac that has been aged for at least 10 years.

In conclusion, cognac is a spirit which has been made in France since the 1600s. It is made from the distillation of white wine and aged in oak barrels for at least two years. Its iconic taste is made up of notes of fruits, flowers and even leather and it is measured in different quality categories, with the higher end being ‘Extra Old’ denoting a Cognac aged for 10 plus years. Whatever the occasion, cognac stands as an iconic spirit enjoyed around the world.