Cognac and cigar always stand next to each other, side by side. This magical pairing has won the heart of global aficionados from the distant past. Even world-known connoisseur, Sir Winston Churchill, is also a big fan of cognac and cigar pairing. Whether you prefer iced or neat, there are a thousand ways to enjoy Cognac. Now read on to learn more about Cognac and pairing tips!
Is Cognac the same as Brandy? What is Champagne Cognac?
The first question, after all, would be what is Cognac. Cognac is a specific type of Brandy. The Brandy needs to be distilled twice and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels to earn the name Cognac.
Champagne Cognac is not the bubbling spirit, but a cognac produced from grapes grown in two Grande Champagne regions. If Cognac is produced with at least 50% of its grapes from the Champagne region, it is a Fine Champagne Cognac. And if it is 100%, it is a Grande Champagne Cognac.
What is the meaning of V.S. / V.S.O.P/ X.O.?
These short forms symbolise the years of ageing of the Cognac.
V.S. means “very special”, and must be aged at least two years.
V.S.O.P means “very superior old pale” and must be aged at least four years.
X.O. stands for ” extra old” and must be aged at least ten years.
Some prefer a simple highball of cognac: simply add soda water and ice. We would suggest you reserve older cognacs for neat to allow you to taste the true aroma of this rare beauty. Below are the perfect ideas, no matter for gifting or enjoyment as a digestif!
Pairing Ideas
1. Davidoff XO Cognac x Davidoff Dominicana Short Robusto
Davidoff XO Cognac is a prestigious vintage blend produced with only old eaux-de-vie from the finest areas of the Cognac region. Expressing complex notes of honey, plums and vanilla complimented by a long, rounded finish with a touch of dried fruits.
Perfect for pairing with the Davidoff Dominicana Short Robusto. Exquisitely crafted with Dominican. Intense and complex smoking experience with pronounced aromas, perfect to enjoy with the sweet spices and fruitiness of Davidoff XO Cognac.
2. Audry Excéption Fine Champagne Cognac x Trinidad Coloniales
The enticing blend of a beautiful marriage between Grande and Petite Champagne eaux-de-vie, aged between 40-60 years. Full-bodied and complex, with notes of oak wood and sweet spices. Delivers a floral finish with a lingering note of rancio. Nothing better to pair this complex Cognac with a powerful Cuban. Allow Trinidad Coloniales’s progression of wood, toasted nut and toast aroma to elevate this pairing experience.
Prepare this pairing for a luxurious moment, this harmonious pairing combines the liquid gold with wisps of seductive aromas.
3. Audry Memorial Fine Champagne Cognac x Plasencia Alma del Fuego Concepción
An exquisite blend of extremely well-aged eaux-de-vie of nothing younger than 30 years and up to 60 years of age. Full-bodied and rich with notes of star anise, liquorice, and violets. Complex flavours with hints of oak. A rare and rich Cognac finished with a buttery and lingering honeyed note.
Add a drop of water to open up the Cognac and pair it up with the Plasencia Alma del Fuego. A sweet spicy blend crafted with the Ometepe tobaccos from Nicaraguan. Enjoy the earth notes and spice aroma that adjoin by the smoke without overwhelming the buttery sweetness from the golden liquor.
