Cognac

Cognac is a type of brandy named after the town of Cognac in France. It is produced in the surrounding wine-growing region in the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime. Cognac production falls under French appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation, with production methods and naming required to meet certain legal requirements.

Production

Cognac is made from white wine that is very dry, acidic, and thin. Though it is made from grapes, it is distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged at least two years in French oak barrels from Limousin or Tronçais. The production process is strictly regulated by the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC).

Grapes

The primary grape used in the production of cognac is Ugni blanc, known locally as Saint-Emilion. Other permitted grape varieties include Folle blanche and Colombard.

Distillation

The wine is distilled twice in traditional copper pot stills known as "alambic charentais." The first distillation, known as "brouillis," results in a liquid with an alcohol content of about 30%. The second distillation, called "la bonne chauffe," refines the spirit to about 70% alcohol.

Aging

After distillation, the cognac is aged in oak barrels. The aging process imparts flavor and color to the spirit. The length of aging determines the quality and classification of the cognac. The minimum aging period is two years, but many cognacs are aged much longer.

Classifications

Cognac is classified based on the length of time it has been aged:

• VS (Very Special): Aged at least two years.
• VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): Aged at least four years.
• XO (Extra Old): Aged at least ten years.

Regions

The Cognac region is divided into six zones, known as "crus," each with its own distinct characteristics:

• Grande Champagne
• Petite Champagne
• Borderies
• Fins Bois
• Bons Bois
• Bois Ordinaires

Notable Brands

Some of the most well-known cognac brands include:

• Hennessy
• Rémy Martin
• Martell
• Courvoisier

See also

• Armagnac
• Brandy
• French wine
• Distillation