Cognac

Cognac is a French grape brandy produced in the Cognac region of south-western France under a protected appellation. To be called Cognac, it must be made within the defined AOC area and follow strict rules covering grape varieties, distillation, ageing and geographical origin.

Brandy is the broader category, whilst Cognac is a specific type of brandy with legally protected status. All Cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is Cognac. To use the name, it must be made in the Cognac region and produced according to the appellation's requirements.

Cognac starts as white wine made from grapes grown in the designated region, most commonly Ugni Blanc. That wine is then distilled twice in traditional Charentais copper pot stills to produce eau-de-vie, which is matured in oak before being blended and bottled. Every step, from vineyard to ageing, is governed by the rules of the appellation.

These terms refer to the minimum age of the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend. VS indicates at least 2 years old, VSOP indicates at least 4 years old, and XO indicates at least 10 years old. They represent age categories rather than flavour descriptions, so different houses can still differ significantly in style within each one.

Cognac is aged in oak, traditionally French oak, where it develops colour, softness and aromatic complexity over time. The spirit must spend a minimum of two years in oak before it can be sold as Cognac, though many expressions are matured for much longer. Ageing plays a central role in shaping the final character, bringing notes of spice, dried fruit, vanilla and wood polish.

Cognac is typically smooth, layered and aromatic, often displaying notes of dried fruit, grape, orange peel, vanilla, spice, oak and nuts. Younger expressions can taste fresher and more fruit-forward, while older Cognacs tend to develop deeper, softer and more complex characteristics, with enhanced rancio and richness.

Cognac and Armagnac are both French grape brandies, but they originate from different regions and are typically produced using different methods. Cognac is generally distilled twice in pot stills, whilst Armagnac is more commonly distilled once in a continuous still. In broad stylistic terms, Cognac is often regarded as more refined and precise, while Armagnac tends to feel fuller, more rustic and more immediately expressive.

Cognac can be enjoyed in various ways depending on the style and age. Older expressions are often best sipped neat, while younger Cognacs can work really well in long drinks and cocktails. There's no single correct serve, but the best approach is usually the one that lets the spirit's fruit, oak and balance shine through most clearly.