Cognac is a variety of Brandy.
It’s named after Cognac, France and certain production methods are required to make sure the Brandy may be named Cognac.
This production methods include:
- Ugni blanc grapes must be used.
- The Brandy must be twice distilled in copper stills.
- The Brandy must aged at least 2 years in Oak barrels.
Only then can it be called Cognac. Wowzers.
And even then, there are grades of Cognac:
- V.S. (Very Special) or 3 stars. This means that the Brandy has been aged for at least 2 years in a cask.
- V.S.O.P. (Very Superior Old Pale) or Reserve. This is where the Brandy has been aged for at least 4 years in a cask.
- Napoléon. This is where the Brandy is aged at least 6 years.
- XO (Extra Old). This is where the Brandy is aged at least 10 years.
- XXO (Extra Extra Old). This is where the Brandy is aged for at least 14 years.
- Hors d’âge (Beyond Age). This is where the Brandy is beyond the official age scales.
I mean, that’s some grading list. I’d wager by the end of that list you’d need to be a millionaire to sample those Cognac’s.
ANYWAY… the Cognac we recommend is:
Our top pickHenessy VS CognacBuy NowIf you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Our top pickHenessy VS CognacBuy NowIf you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
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