20 Interesting Facts About Cognac

Cognac is noblea drink with a rich history, traditions and drinking culture. Below you will find 20 fascinating facts that will help you take a new look at this famousalcohol .

1. Cognac is a brandy, but not all brandy is cognac. It can only be called "cognac" if it is produced in the Cognac region of France.
2. It is made only from white grapes. The main variety is Ugni Blanc, also known as Trebbiano in Italy.
3. Cognac is double distilled, making it cleaner and smoother than other types of brandy.
4. Minimum aging is 2 years. Even the “youngest” bottle of cognac must spend at least two years in an oak barrel.
5. The aging is indicated by letters on the label: VS (2 years), VSOP (4 years), XO (10 years and more since 2018).
6. Oak barrels are a must. Limousin oak barrels are used for aging, which impart a characteristic taste and aroma.
7. The same spirit can end up in several different bottles. Producers often blend spirits from different years to achieve a balanced taste.
8. Surprisingly, 97% of all cognac is exported. The most popular brands are Hennessy, Rémy Martin and Courvoisier.
9. Keeping it in a bottle does not improve the taste. Unlike wine, cognac does not age in a sealed bottle.
10. There are collectible varieties. Some bottles of cognac cost tens of thousands of dollars - for example, Louis XIII by Rémy Martin.
11. The correct serving temperature is 18–20°C. This is when all the aromas and notes are revealed.
12. It is not customary to drink cognac in one gulp. It is drunk slowly, in small sips, savoring the taste and aroma.
13. It has a complex aromatic bouquet. In cognac you can detect up to 200 different shades - from vanilla to dried fruits.
14. "Tears" on the glass indicate quality. The slower they flow, the richer the texture of the drink.
15. Cognac can be used in cooking. It is excellent for flambéing, marinades and desserts.
16. A drink with a history of more than 300 years. The first mention of cognac production dates back to the 17th century.
17. The Cognac regions are divided into six zones. The most prestigious is Grande Champagne, then Petite Champagne, and so on.
18. The cellar masters (maître de chai) are true artists. They are the ones who blend the spirits and determine the character of each release.
19. In FranceDrinking cognac is a whole ritual. There is a special culture of glasses, gestures and pauses.
20. Cognac is not only drunk after a meal. It can be combined with chocolate, cheese, cigars and even ice cream.

Cognac is not just a strong alcohol, but a whole culture of taste, history and craftsmanship. And the more you learn about it, the more you begin to appreciate every drop of this noble drink.