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Cognac | Vintage Wine and Port

About Cognac

Cognac is a prestigious type of brandy that originates from the Cognac region in southwestern France. It is widely regarded as one of the finest spirits in the world, known for its refined taste, rich history, and complex production process

ProductionDouble Distillation: Cognac undergoes a double distillation process in copper pot stills known as alambic charentais. The first distillation produces a liquid called "brouillis," which is then distilled a second time to create "eau-de-vie," the base for Cognac. Aging: The eau-de-vie is aged in oak barrels, typically from the Limousin or Tronçais forests. The minimum aging period is two years, but many Cognacs are aged much longer, sometimes for decades. The aging process allows the spirit to develop its complex flavors and character. Blending: Cognac is almost always a blend of different eaux-de-vie, which are often from different crus and of varying ages. The skill of the cellar master in blending is crucial to maintaining the consistent quality and style of each Cognac house

  • Grape Varieties The primary grape used in Cognac production is Ugni Blanc (known as Trebbiano in Italy). Other permitted grape varieties include Folle Blanche and Colombard. These grapes are chosen for their high acidity, which is ideal for distillation
  • Aging Process After distillation, Armagnac is aged in oak barrels, typically from the local Monlezun forest or from Limousin or Tronçais oak. The spirit must be aged for at least one year, but it is often matured for much longer. As it ages, the spirit develops complex flavors, with notes of dried fruit, spices, vanilla, and wood. Over time, the tannins from the oak mellow the spirit, contributing to its smoothness.

    • Types of Cognac Cognac is classified by age statements, which indicate the youngest spirit in the blend:

  • VS (Very Special): The youngest eau-de-vie in the blend is at least two years old.
  • VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): The youngest eau-de-vie is at least four years old.
  • XO (Extra Old): The youngest eau-de-vie is at least ten years old (previously six years before 2018).
  • Napoleon: Often aged between VSOP and XO, with a minimum of six years.
  • Hors d'age: Translates to "beyond age," typically referring to very old Cognacs, often much older than the XO category.
  • Vintage: Made from eaux-de-vie distilled in a single year, with the vintage year marked on the bottle.
    • Armagnac

    Serving Cognac

    Serving Cognac is a ritual that enhances the experience of this unique and complex spirit. Here are some tips on how to properly serve and enjoy Cognac:

    Choosing the Glassware Traditional Glass: The ideal glass for serving Cognac is a tulip-shaped glass or a small snifter. These glasses help concentrate the aromas, allowing you to fully appreciate the spirit’s bouquet. Alternative: A wine glass with a slightly narrower opening can also work if you don't have a traditional brandy glass.

    Serving Temperature Room Temperature: Cognacis best served at room temperature, around 18–20°C (64–68°F). This allows the full spectrum of flavors and aromas to be released. Hand Warming: Hold the glass in your hand to warm the Cognac slightly, but avoid heating it too much, as excessive warmth can overpower its more subtle notes.

    Pouring Pour a small amount, about 30–45 ml, into the glass. This is sufficient for savoring the spirit without overwhelming the palate.

    Tasting Ritual Nose: Before sipping, gently swirl the glass to release the aromas. Bring the glass to your nose and inhale deeply to enjoy the complex bouquet. Take your time to identify the different notes. Sip: Take a small sip and let the Cognac roll over your tongue. Notice the initial flavors and how they evolve as the spirit warms in your mouth. Finish: Pay attention to the finish, which can reveal additional layers of flavor as the spirit lingers.

    Accompaniments Food Pairing: Cognac can be paired with a variety of foods. Dark chocolate, dried fruits, nuts, and strong cheeses like Roquefort or aged Gouda complement its rich flavors. Digestif: Cognac is traditionally served as a digestif, enjoyed after a meal to aid digestion.

    Cocktails and Mixing While Cognac is often enjoyed neat, it can also be used in cocktails. Classic cocktails like the Sidecar or Brandy Sour can be made with Cognac for a richer, more complex flavor. Mixing Tips: If using Cognac in cocktails, consider younger varieties like VS or VSOP, as they are more robust and can stand up to other ingredients.

    Ageing and Vintage Older Cognac: For older, more aged Cognac's (XO, Hors d'âge, or vintage), it’s recommended to savor them neat to fully appreciate the depth and complexity developed over the years. Younger Armagnacs: Younger Cognacs can be slightly more versatile, enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in mixed drinks.

    Storage Proper Storage: Store Cognacs in a cool, dark place, upright to prevent the cork from drying out. Once opened, the bottle should be consumed within a few years to maintain its quality, though Cognac can last longer if stored properly.

    Cognac

    We are delighted to offer a wide range of Cognac


    99 Cognac's's found.

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1986

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1986

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    Includes original orange colour cardboard gift box
    ...more

    Only £89.00
    (4 in stock)

    Hine Grand Champagne Cognac, 1986

    Hine Grand Champagne Cognac 1986

    Champagne Cognac
    Landed in 1987. Bottled in 2001 for John Harvey and Sons. ...more

    Only £395.00
    (Out of stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1984

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1984

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £119.00
    (Out of stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1983

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1983

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    Includes original orange colour cardboard gift box ...more

    Only £99.00
    (10 in stock)

    Janneau , 1983

    Janneau 1983

    Armagnac 1983 Vintage
    Includes Own Gift Box
    ...more

    Only £149.00
    (6 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1982

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1982

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle ...more

    Only £89.00
    (2 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1981

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1981

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £89.00
    (6 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1979

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1979

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £89.00
    (6 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1978

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1978

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £99.00
    (Out of stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1976

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1976

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £99.00
    (11 in stock)

    Pierre Seguinot, 1975

    Pierre Seguinot 1975

    Grande Champagne Cognac, Cognac
    Bottled for The Folio Society Ltd
    ...more

    Only £325.00
    (2 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1973

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1973

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    Includes original orange colour cardboard gift box ...more

    Only £149.00
    (7 in stock)

    Janneau , 1972

    Janneau 1972

    Armagnac 1972 Vintage
    Includes wooden presentation case
    ...more

    Only £199.00
    (Out of stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1971

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1971

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £169.00
    (16 in stock)

    Pierre Seguinot, 1971

    Pierre Seguinot 1971

    Grande Champagne Cognac, Cognac
    bottled for The Folio Society Ltd
    ...more

    Only £325.00
    (3 in stock)

    J. de Maillac, 1969

    J. de Maillac 1969

    J de Malliac Armagnac ...more

    Only £245.00
    (2 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1967

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1967

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £182.00
    (8 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1965

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1965

    Ryst Dupeyron
    Reserve, Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl
    ...more

    Only £345.00
    (6 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1964

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1964

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £325.00
    (1 in stock)

    Janneau , 1964

    Janneau 1964

    Armagnac 1964 Vintage ...more

    Only £489.00
    (Out of stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1963

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1963

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    Includes original orange colour cardboard gift box ...more

    Only £295.00
    (3 in stock)

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac, 1962

    Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac 1962

    Ryst Dupeyron Reserve Joseph Millesime vintage Armagnac
    50cl bottle
    ...more

    Only £225.00
    (7 in stock)

    Baron de Lustrac, 1960

    Baron de Lustrac 1960

    Vintage Armagnac
    In original Lustrac wooden box as illustrated
    ...more

    Only £395.00
    (Out of stock)

    Marcel Trepout, 1960

    Marcel Trepout 1960

    Marcel Trépout, Armagnac ...more

    Only £395.00
    (Out of stock)