what is cognac

Cognac is a type of brandy that is named after the commune of Cognac, France. It is produced in the surrounding wine-growing region in the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime. Cognac is a barrel-aged distillate made from grapes from a geographically protected region of Southwestern France, and it must meet certain specific criteria to earn the designation of Cognac. The production of Cognac falls under French appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation, with strict production methods and naming requirements. It is typically characterized by a flavor profile that combines nuts, fruit, caramel, honey, vanilla, or other spices. Cognac must be aged for at least two years in French oak barrels, and it matures in a similar way to whiskies and wines. The alcohol by volume of Cognac is typically 40%