Gaby
True cognac is a noble drink, and only truly refined individuals can savor its divine notes. Enjoying it requires an appreciation for every nuance of this exquisite beverage.
Producing quality alcohol is no easy task. Achieving great results demands a significant investment of time and effort. The craft of cognac-making is passed down through generations, requiring skills and expertise that border on artistry.
Historically, cognac has been regarded as the drink of aristocrats, captivating its admirers with its sophisticated flavor and unique aromas. The story of its origin and recipe is shrouded in mystery and mystique. France is considered its birthplace, as it was there that cognac was first created. However, over time, Georgia has also emerged as one of the most renowned producing countries.
What is Cognac Made From
Unfortunately, many of the drinks with a certain amount of ethyl alcohol available in modern stores have little in common with true cognac. In its original form, cognac is a type of grape brandy made exclusively from white wine. Surprisingly, the wine must be as acidic and unpalatable as possible, as this condition allows the raw material to age properly in oak barrels.
Wine is made from grapes—specifically, light varieties. The selection process is taken very seriously, as the grapes must be of the wine-making kind. The most famous variety is Ugni Blanc. Winemakers appreciate it for its ability to thrive in almost any environment and resist various grape diseases. Additionally, it yields excellent harvests and has a high acidity level. This type of grape is often used by winemakers to balance out overly sweet wines.
Cognac can also be made from other grape varieties, such as Colombard and Folle Blanche. The ideal drink incorporates three types of grapes, each contributing its unique note and character. This results in a beverage with a perfect balance of flavors and aromas. For instance, Ugni Blanc provides floral notes with a hint of spice. Folle Blanche helps create a true cognac bouquet with hints of summer fragrances—lime and violets—that only deepen with years of aging. Colombard adds the necessary sharpness and strength.
The timing of the grape harvest is crucial. This should occur around the end of October, as all the aforementioned varieties are characterized by slow ripening. Unlike the production of regular wine, no machines are used to crush the seeds during this process. Ultimately, the ratio of different grape juices is determined by the producer, which directly influences the unique recipe.
How Cognac is Produced
The process of making this drink is just as fascinating as its history. It requires special equipment and strict adherence to the recipe. Moreover, great attention is paid to the sequence of all stages, which are as follows:
- growing and harvesting grapes;
- pressing the juice;
- fermentation;
- distillation;
- aging;
- blending.
The foundation of the process is the double distillation of the finished grape wine. To achieve the desired floral aroma, cognac must be aged for several years in oak barrels. This stage is crucial for the production of the beverage.
The characteristics of the future cognac depend directly on the barrel itself—not just its flavor, but also its aroma and color. It must be made from oak, as this wood allows the wine to absorb around 2,000 components that contribute to its unique taste. The barrels are crafted solely from wood, without the use of nails.
Barrels can be reused. The older they are, the darker the drink becomes. An old barrel also affects the strength of the cognac, which should not exceed 40-45 degrees. Interestingly, to protect the barrels from pests, spiders are intentionally bred in wine cellars, where they weave their webs around them.
To produce a quality drink, the wine must be aged for at least two years. Some varieties are aged for 80-100 years, during which approximately 3% of the wine evaporates from the total volume. Winemakers refer to this loss as the “angel’s share.”
Humidity in the cellar is also monitored closely. It must be maintained at a specific level, as this is essential for the cognac to develop its noble qualities.
How to Properly Enjoy Cognac
A good old cognac deserves special treatment, not tolerating haste or disrespect. With the right approach, this noble French brandy will delight you with a luxurious palette of flavors and aromas. To truly savor each sip, consider the following tips:
- the ideal atmosphere for enjoying noble brandy is a calm setting or solitude;
- the glass should not be filled to the brim—ideally, it should be filled only a third of the way;
- sips should be small, and it’s best to hold each one in your mouth for a few seconds to appreciate the aftertaste;
- after finishing your glass, take a moment to inhale the delicate aromas of the cognac that linger.
It is recommended to consume the drink neat—especially if it is a cognac aged up to 20 years. Older cognacs can be mixed with mineral water, coffee, ice, tea, juices, or added to cocktails.
What Are the Benefits of Cognac?
First and foremost, cognac has powerful antiseptic and tonic properties. Consuming it in moderation can definitely benefit the human body—just be careful not to overindulge. When combined with other beverages, cognac can serve as a remedy, such as:
- mixed with hot tea, it acts as a cold preventative;
- warmed with honey and lemon, it can reduce fever;
- when taken with hot milk, it can help treat coughs and alleviate bronchitis.
Cognac is beneficial for both men’s and women’s health. It can improve skin and hair condition, relieve stomach cramps, and normalize digestive system function. Consuming no more than 40 grams of cognac daily can enhance cardiovascular and vascular health. A shot before bed can help combat insomnia. Many enjoy drinking coffee with cognac for an energy boost. A homemade tincture of cognac with rowan berries can help improve immunity and reduce inflammation in internal organs.
We should appreciate that in our time, this drink of the gods is accessible to everyone. We can indulge in the experience of feeling like we’re on Parnassus without traveling to distant Greece. Just remember not to overdo it, as too much of any medicine can be toxic—especially when it comes to the drink of the gods!))
