2018Q4SpiritedVA - 31

and microclimate that produces a
cognac with different qualities.
Cognac is double-distilled in
copper stills from white wine
grapes, primarily ugni blanc (also
called trebbiano). After the first
distillation, the resulting eau de vie
is aged in oak barrels and diluted
with water until it reaches an ABV,
or alcohol content, of 40 percent.
Cognac is categorized according
to the amount of time it ages in
these barrels. VS (very special) is
at least two-years-old. VSOP (very
special old pale) is four years or
older, and Napoleon or XO (extra
old) must age for no less than six
years.
There are other regulations
as well. Cognac-producers are
only permitted to distill from
November through March. While
ugni blanc is the primary grape
varietal, approximately 5 percent
of the spirit is usually comprised

of folle blanche and colombard
grapes.
As a cognac ages, the flavor
typically becomes more complex,
more fragrant and more desirable.
Younger varieties can be used
in cocktails or long drinks. A
Brandy Alexander, for example,
is a wonderful dessert cocktail
made from brandy, crème de
cacao and cream. They're so sweet
and rich that John Lennon called
them "milkshakes." VSOPs can
be enjoyed neat, on the rocks,
or mixed. An XO, on the other
hand, should always be sipped
neat-you don't want to corrupt
the delicate, mature taste with
a mixer. Cognac can be served
at room temperature or slightly
warmed. The proper glassware is
essential to let all the flavors and
aromas develop-a balloon glass,
snifter or tulip glass are your best
options.

Virginia ABC has more than 45
different cognac options on its
website, many of which you'll find
on store shelves. Cognac becomes
more complex with age, but it
also tends to get more expensive.
Which one is right for you? The final
answer is on your own palate. Try a
few, from any price range, and see
which is your personal favorite:

SPIRITED VIRGINIA | OCTOBER | NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2018 31



http://www.virginiawine.org

2018Q4SpiritedVA

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2018Q4SpiritedVA

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2018Q4SpiritedVA - Cover3
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