Kinds of Cognac
Brandy is one of the most consumed types of liquor in the world. It is loved for its smooth finish and the mix of sweet and bitter tastes. Connoisseurs of the drink all have their favorite type and brand of brandy, and as far as types go, one of the most renowned is cognac. This type of brandy is made only in France and there are several different types of cognac as well. Each is made in a different region of the country and features different tastes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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There are a number of different types of cognac and also a number of different ways that the drink can be separated and classified. First is by the grade of the alcohol, which is given based on the alcohol content of the drink, the mixture of liquors and its age. Various grades include extra old, very special and Napoleon. Cognac types can also be classified by the grapes used to make them, which are grown in the different regions of France that produce cognac.
Geography
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There are six different regions in France that create cognac. Each region uses its own grapes and techniques in a unique way to offer varied liquors. These regions are Borderies, Fins Bois, Bon Bois, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne and Bois Ordinaire. Grand Champagne is typically believed to produce the best, or at least the most renowned, cognac. The grapes in the Bois Ordinaire region, on the other hand, grow in less fertile soil, which makes the cognac they produce age faster and have a more bitter taste.
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Function
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No matter what type of cognac you are dealing with, it is likely made the same as all the others. Cognac first starts out as white wine created by grapes that grow in the aforementioned French regions. The wine is dry and bitter, so it is distilled twice in order to make it better for drinking. The distillation process involves using yeast to create alcohol and a bit of carbonation. Wine is distilled once, but cognac goes through the process again in order to further blend in new flavors and add to the alcohol content of the beverage.
Features
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Different types of cognac, though made in the same way, have different tastes based on the grapes that are used to make them. For example, the cognac that comes from the Grande Champagne region has an airy, floral taste. Those from the Petite Champagne region have a similar taste, but it is one that does not last as long. Cognac coming from the Borderies, in contrast, has a strong nutty taste that is unique among all types of cognac.
Warning
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As with all types of liquor, cognac has a high percentage of alcohol and must be consumed in moderation. The actual alcohol content of cognac is 40 percent, or 80 proof. This is the same as most vodkas, rums and other spirits. Consumption of cognac results in impaired cognitive functions and motor skill functions. Too much cognac can cause alcohol poisoning and in the worst case scenario, even death. Always drink moderately and make sure to pace yourself when consuming this beverage.
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