Cognac

Exclusive spirit for connoisseurs: fine French Cognac available at Heinemann

Cognac, the most popular of all brandies, has been an obsession since time immemorial. The color, the aromas and, the exclusivity of the spirit – which can only be produced in a small region in the heart of France – excites gourmets all over the world. Cognac is not a spirit for parties; instead, it is a fine specialty to be enjoyed at leisure and with complete attention. Learn about this fine French brandy in all its facets: Heinemann offers you an extensive range of vintage Cognacs, from Rémy Martin and Camus to luxury brands like Hennessy and Courvoisier as a flight passenger, you can pre-order these conveniently online.

Where does brandy come from? The long-standing tradition of Cognac:

Cognac can only be produced in the regions of Cognaçais, Charente and Charente-Maritime around the city of Cognac. The spirit owes its existence – just like other brandies – to the flourishing world of viticulture: France had been exporting wine to Northern Europe since very early times, and it was soon discovered that a wine distillate endured the long ship journeys better than still wine.

The brandy’s ability to be stored over longer periods, as well as its taste, won people over, and the distillation technique spread rapidly. At the beginning of the 17th century, distilleries in the Cognac region began distilling their brandies twice and perfected this technique. The protected origin, the double distillation method, and the long aging periods in oak barrels are today the characteristic features of Cognac and define its distinct flavor. 

Cognac – strictly controlled production ensures outstanding results

Just like its close relative, Armagnac, Cognac is also mainly produced from three grape varieties: Trebbiano (Ugni Blanc), Folle Blanche and Colombard. The production involves several steps:

• Base wine: A light base wine with pronounced acidity and approximately 8% alcohol is produced from the white wine grapes.
• Raw distillate: The base wine is distilled in a so-called still to produce the so-called raw distillate (27-30% vol.).
• Fine distillate: Only the middle cut is collected in the second distillation round. The so-called fine distillate contains 60-72% vol.
• Barrel aging: The finished distillate is filled in large oak barrels where it ages for several years in order to develop its aromas.
• Blending: Before sale, Cognacs from several barrels are usually blended in order to achieve as harmonious a result as possible. In addition, Cognac is diluted with water before bottling to achieve a drinking strength of 40% vol. 

Depending on the aging period, Cognac is classified into quality grades: V.S. (aged for at least two years), V.S.O.P. (aged for at least four years), and XO (aged for at least six years). Outstanding specimens of these quality grades such as Camus  or Courvoisier are available in the Heinemann shop.

With famous brands from the Heinemann Shop: Wondering how to enjoy Cognac in style?  

Neat and without ice, typically served in a snifter – a good Cognac is an exquisite indulgence. However, this fine brandy is not to be underestimated, even as the main ingredient in popular cocktails like the Rolls Royce, the sidecar, or the simple French connection. Savor vintage Cognacs from Heinemann Editions – Heinemann provides your spirits ready to be picked up at the airport with the Click & Collect service.