Described as an intensely aromatic liquid in warm tones of amber, this spirit is a creation born in the French town of Cognac. Following white grape harvest, the berries are pressed, vinified, and double distilled in copper stills to produce a fruit brandy. The aging process is done in oak wood barrels for a minimum of two years. Thus born is an authentic liquor from the heart of Cognac AOC in France.
The solution to a perfect bottle of cognac is the white grape variety which constitutes the central element. The grape variants include Colombard, Montils, Folle Blanche, Ugni Blanc, and Sémillon. Owing to the limited geographic area of Cognac vineyards, the amount of liquor produced is seemingly constrained. In truth, Cognac makes up less than a percent of the total volume of alcohol sold worldwide, making it a true rarity in the global market.
Did you know that making a batch of cognac is labor-intensive? As much as the experience is priceless, there is a lot of experimenting during the process! The goal of a cognac blender is to retain the flavor from year to year. Since the flavor of cognac varies so much, it is nothing short of a miracle that blenders are consistent in maintaining the same character profile.
The length of aging is a major factor in how bottles vary from each other. Younger VS, or ‘very special’ cognac is made from brandies that have aged for at least two years, but an XO cognac, or ‘extra-old,’ must be aged for at least six years to attain the intense depth. The VSOP cognacs, or ‘very superb old pale’ cognacs stand midway, with characteristics of both young and old. They are made from four-year and older brandies.
The taste of Cognac bursts with flavors and can be vaguely described as ‘complex’. The younger cognac has flavors of freshly pressed grapes, daisies, and oak spices. This can take on sprightly yet fruity notes. With time, the fruit matures, the oak flavors are better blended, and the floral becomes more intense. Nutty notes, cocoa, and earthy aromas like forest floor or mushroom arise. The Cognac’s unique feeling is what makes it a peculiar spirit.
From the beginning, Cognac has been an essential part of cocktails. The rich aromatic characters in fruity, floral, and a dash of spice allow this liquor to waltz on the cocktail wheel, making it a superior choice for mixing flavors. Cognac can be drunk neat, on ice, or even frozen, making it a gratifying aspect of this velvety spirit.
You’d be surprised to know that Cognac is considered the best digestif. It helps to improve the absorption capacity of the body after a big meal. Cognacs are also known to accentuate the creaminess of a dessert. Typically during an aperitif, a glass of Cognac is sipped neat. By adding a drop of water, the spirit reveals a rich fruity, and floral aroma with a hint of spice. Here’s where you can buy cognac online, with just a click.
As the experts say, to take in the true feelings of cognac, one must choose the right vessel. The tulip glass has replaced the traditional balloon glass, as it lets one thoroughly enjoy the intense notes of a true Cognac. However, the experts suggest that Cognac on ice is best enjoyed in a tumbler, making it easy to smell and drink.
Even though it's only a modernized version of the balloon glass, a wobble snifter is unquestionably the most innovative of all the cognac glasses. The vessel has a similar shape to other balloon glasses, but the key contrast is that it lacks a stem. When you put the glass down, the bell will practically roll across the table, making your cognac move around constantly and release more aroma. Even though a wobble snifter can be a little tricky to maintain at parties, it will keep your guests talking about the uniqueness of the vessel!
Pairing wine and cheese have been in practice for centuries. Similarly, a cognac made from grapes could go perfectly with great cheese! A standard rule is to pair younger cheeses with younger cognacs and older cheeses with older liquor. The salty flavor of the cheeses pair well with the spirit's woody notes. Cognac in combination with food delicacies is just another way to prepare your senses for the subtlety of flavors and the balance of aromas. From sweets to savory, a cognac has the power to amplify a flavourful meal.
French spirits are enjoyed all over the world, be it a living room or a fine dining establishment. If it’s a delectable French export with toasty notes and smooth texture, it has to be a Cognac. Choose to buy premium Cognac from our collection. May your sips be smoother and bottles, stronger.
