Is Cognac and Brandy the Same Thing?
Cognac and brandy are two of the most versatile liquors on the market. While both are produced in France, there are differences between them. Luckily, you can tell them apart if you know what they’re made of. Whether you’re looking for a good, affordable brandy, or a fine cognac, here are some things to consider.
Brandy is a type of distilled liquor made from grapes. In order to qualify as brandy, it must be made from grapes grown in six different terroirs within the Cognac region. These terroirs differ in climate, soil, and topography. Cognac liquor is then distilled two times in a copper pot still.
Cognac is produced by distillers in Champagne, France. It is produced from grapes that are grown in chalky soil. This soil helps produce a high-quality cognac that is able to hold its quality and finesse. Although brandy is often made from grapes grown in other countries, it can differ in quality and taste. Brandy made in France is typically made from white grapes.
While Cognac and brandy are made from grapes, there are also differences between the ingredients and processes used to make them. Some are made from various fruits, while others are distilled from wine grapes. In general, both processes involve fermented juice, distillation, blending, and aging.
The most common difference between Cognac and brandy is the way they are served. The former is served in a glass with a funnel or ‘tulip’, while the latter is poured from the bottle into a shot glass. This helps bring out the fruity flavors in both types of drinks.
There are differences between brandy and cognac, though they are often confused with one another. In addition to being made from the same raw material, both are aged in different ways. While brandy is often aged for two years, cognac is aged for longer. It can be aged for as long as 100 years.
The difference between brandy and cognac is important for you to understand what you’re drinking. Cognac is made from grapes grown in a specific region of France, while brandy is produced in a different region. The process of making Cognac follows strict regulations and has certain requirements.
Cognac is a type of brandy, distilled from white grapes. It is popular in cocktails and is produced in a French town called Cognac. It contains between 36 and 60% alcohol by volume, and is often drunk neat or mixed with other spirits. The difference between brandy and cognac is small, but important.
VSOP stands for very superior old pale cognac. Generally, the youngest brandy in a VSOP blend is at least four years old. A blend with more than five years of aging is called Hors d’age. VSOP is often very smooth and creamy, with orange notes, but not overly sweet.
