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Armagnac vs. Cognac, Two Great French Brandies
Born from the same grape variety, shaped by different histories, landscapes, and traditions.
Most visitors to France have heard of Cognac. Far fewer have discovered its older cousin, Armagnac. Both are world-renowned French grape brandies, but they evolved in neighbouring regions with remarkably different personalities. Understanding the differences is one of the best ways to appreciate France’s remarkable spirits heritage.
Cognac is required to be double distilled in a Charentes still, where Armagnac is mostly single distilled in a continuous column still. |
Cognac is nearer the Atlantic and has mostly chalky soil. Armagnac is farther south in Gascony, with mostly sandy soil. |
Armagnac production first started over 700 years ago. It is made from ten grape varieties, with four principal varieties: Ugni Blanc, Baco 22A, Colombard, and Folle Blanche. You can taste notes of baked fruit, spice, nuts, cocoa, and earthy complexity. |
Cognac production first started over 500 years ago. It is made from 98% Ugni Blanc grapes, while Colombard and Folle Blanche are also used. You can taste notes of candied fruit, citrus, vanilla, delicate florals, warm spice, and silky elegance. |
Both brandies can be served neat, on the rocks, or used to make excellent cocktails. The best way to learn the difference is, of course, to taste them for yourself.
You might also consider planning a visit to each region where you can try to arrange to meet the producers, walk the vineyards and taste directly from the barrels. Only then will you begin to understand why the French treasure both spirits for different reasons.
Heavenly Spirits has been importing Fine French spirits for almost 20 years.
Visit their website for more information. www.heavenlyspirits.com
