Types of Cognac

Recently, the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC) made their first change to the ageing designations of Cognac since 1983. The change, effective April 1, 2018 required that in order for newly bottled Cognac to carry the designation "X.O. (Extra Old)", the youngest eau-de-vie must be at least ten years old. Under the 1983 designations in order for a Cognac to be designated XO, the youngest eau-de-vie needed to be at least six years...

Welcome to the fascinating world of VSOP Cognacs, where time, tradition, and expertise come together to create a unique and exquisite experience. In this blog post, we'll delve into the rich history and production process of VSOP Cognacs, as well as explore some of the most popular brands and tasting notes. So, sit back, pour yourself a glass of this delightful spirit, and let's embark on a journey through the world of VSOP Cognacs. What...

In the world of fine spirits, few names carry as much weight and history as Napoleon Cognacs. These exquisite drinks are the epitome of luxury, with a rich and storied history that dates back centuries. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Napoleon Cognacs, exploring their origins, production process, and what sets them apart from other Cognacs. So, sit back, pour yourself a glass of this delightful spirit, and join us on a journey...

Welcome to a delightful exploration of Pineau des Charentes, a unique and often overlooked gem of the French wine and spirits world. Often referred to as a "brandy that's almost Cognac," Pineau is a versatile and delicious drink that can be enjoyed neat or as a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails. Let's delve into the fascinating history, production process, and different types of Pineau des Charentes, as well as offer some suggestions...

Let's tale a look into the fascinating world of VS Cognacs, from their history and production process to their unique characteristics and flavors. So, grab a glass of your favorite VS Cognac, and let's embark on this delightful journey together! What is a VS Cognac?VS stands for "Very Special," a designation that indicates the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend has been aged for at least two years in oak barrels. This aging process imparts a...

Cognac is a luxurious and refined spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries. As a protected and regulated product of France, cognac must meet certain production standards to earn its name. There are several types of cognac that can be enjoyed, each with their own unique characteristics and qualities. Here is a closer look at the different types of cognac available. VS (Very Special) CognacVS cognac is the youngest and least aged of all cognacs....

What does X.O. mean for Cognac? X.O. is an aging designation given to Cognacs, that means "extra old". The Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC) is the governing body that monitors the production of Cognac to ensure that it meets all required standards. In 1983, the BNIC established designations with respect to classifying Cognacs by age. The designation X.O. applies to Cognacs in which the youngest eau-de-vie blended in the Cognac is not less than...

XO cognac, or extra old cognac, is a designation that refers to the age and quality of a particular cognac. In order to be labeled as an XO cognac, the youngest eau-de-vie (the clear, colorless fruit brandy that is the basis of cognac) in the blend must have been aged in oak casks for at least 10 years. However, many of the finest XO cognacs have much older components in their blends, with some...

In the early 20th century, Édouard Cointreau, the visionary behind the iconic Cointreau liqueur, developed a recipe called "Majestic." This inspired the creation of Cointreau Noir, a sophisticated blend of orange liqueur and cognac that has captivated the palates of connoisseurs worldwide. With its unique combination of citrus freshness and velvety caress, Cointreau Noir has become an exceptional alternative to premium dark spirits, perfect for the finest cocktails and even enjoyed neat or on...