A Beginner’s Guide to Cognac

When we think of cognac, many conjure images of smoke jacket-clad academics sipping expensive brandy straight in their libraries. However, cognac is delicious and affordable alternative to wine that can be enjoyed in cocktails, over ice or with meals. If you have been intimidated by the beverage, it’s time to avail yourself to this versatile, complex spirit.

Victor Hugo calls cognac the "liquor of the gods." It's become known as a symbol of French luxury, the best brandy money can buy (yes, cognac is a brandy).

Cognac is a type of brandy made from white wine distilled twice and aged in oak barrels for two years. This distilled spirit must be produced in the Cognac region in West France.

What are the age categories?

Image via Wine Folly

Those funny letters on bottles of cognac indicate their age. VS Cognac (Very Special), ages for two years, VSOP (Very Special Old Pale), ages for at least four years. Napoleon Cognac requires six years of aging, and XO, (Extra Old) ages for at least 10 years.

How was it invented?

Image via Cognac Expert

They say that cognac was actually invented by the Dutch, who were dissatisfied by wine they imported from the Cognac region. They started distilling the wine to improve it, and the practice made its way back to France. The Southern Frenchfolk eventually perfected the practice.

How should you enjoy cognac?

Perhaps the most famous style of serving cognac is neat, but all over the Cognac region of France, it is much more common to serve mixed with toxic or gingerale ale and enjoyed as an apéritif before dinner. Expert cognac drinkers will serve this brandy with ice or a drop of water, to allow the floral notes and spice aromas to come out. It is also delicious served in prohibition era cocktails like the classic Sazerac or an Old Fashioned.

What should I eat it with?

Younger cognac pairs best with seafood, oysters and cheeses. The older stuff will bring out the best in chocolate, mushrooms or other earthy flavours.

So for the next big occasion, consider sending some eau de vie.