Cognac

Cognac is an eau-de-vie obtained from the double distillation of white grape wine, so that when it ferments it acquires a much more exquisite flavour and aroma than the wine itself.

It is very common to confuse Cognac with Brandy, but it is important to bear in mind that there are some characteristics that differentiate them:

• The place of production because Cognac can only be produced in France while Brandy can be produced anywhere in the world.
• The variety of grapes because only three types of white grapes can be used to make Cognac: ugni blanc, colombard or folle blanche, whereas any variety can be used to make brandy.
• The distillation process Cognac is made using a double distillation process in a copper still, whereas any process can be used to make brandy.
• Cognac must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak casks, whereas there are types of brandy that only need to be aged for at least six months in wooden casks.

History of Cognac

There are many versions about the origin of Cognac. The best known tells us that the first people who made the decision to store their distilled wines in oak casks for many years to turn them into brandy were the Welsh wine growers in the 18th century, and it was during this storage process that the liquid took on a golden colour and acquired an intense flavour, very pleasant on the palate and an exquisite aroma.

Cognac Production Process

The Cognac elaboration process is very important to achieve the class and category that characterises this drink.

1. The first thing to do is to carefully select the type of grapes to be used.

2. Then, the eau-de-vie obtained must go through two distillation processes, for which the use of copper stills is essential.

3. In the first distillation, we obtain a liquor with an alcohol content of 30o and with the second, we obtain an eau-de-vie with approximately 70o of alcohol which is then reduced with water.

4. The final product must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels.

Types of Cognac

Depending on the time spent in the barrels, they are called:

VS (Very Special): These are all those that have rested in oak casks for a minimum of two years.
VSOP (Very Special Old Pale): These are all those that have been aged for at least four years.
XO (Extra Old): These are the most exclusive cognacs and are aged in oak casks for a minimum of six years.

Cocktails made with Cognac

• Alpine Glow
• Bombay
• Horse Neck
• Cognac Delight
• French Green Dragon
• Highlife

Cognac Brands

• Remy Martin XO Excellence Boxed Bottle
• Remy Martin Centaure de Diamant
• Remy Martin V.S.O.P. Nature Cask
• Martell V.S.
• Hennessy X.O. Boxed Bottle