Cognac
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Cognac is widely regarded as the world's best brandy and is certainly the most sought after. The Cognac growing region is split into 6 different areas or crus. These are, from the most highly regarded to lesser areas are - Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois, and Bois Ordinaires. Cognac must be made from at least 90% Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche or Colombard (often they are made from 100% Ugni Blanc). Wine from the region is double distilled in a Charentais still and then aged for a period of time in oak barrels from which it derives it colour and flavours / aromas. Cognac is usually belended by the maitre de chai (master blender) and is labelled according to the youngest spirit that is in the blend. The main classifications are - VS or Very Special (minimum 2 years in cask), VSOP or Very Superior Old Pale (at least 4 years) and XO or Extra Old (minimum 6 years in cask). There is also vintage Cognac but this is more of a rarity. Many of the smaller, boutique producers age thier brandies for periods of time far exceeding these minimum requirement - these include Maxime Trijol, Ragnaud-Sabourin and Lafragette. Other larger, more famous brands include - Hine, Hennessy and Rémy Martin. The official BNIC Website, the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac, has information on all things relating to Cognac.
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