Cognac is a type of brandy that originates from the Cognac region in southwestern France. It is made from white grapes, primarily the Ugni Blanc grape, and is distilled twice in copper pot stills. Cognac is then aged in oak barrels, which imparts flavors and characteristics to the spirit.
The age statement on Cognac bottles and Scotch whisky bottles is different and can be a source of confusion for some people:
Cognac Age Statement:
Cognac age statements typically refer to the age of the youngest eau-de-vie (distillate) in the blend. Cognac is often a blend of different eau-de-vie from different years and vineyards.
The age statement is expressed in terms of years, such as VS (Very Special, aged for at least 2 years), VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale, aged for at least 4 years), and XO (Extra Old, aged for at least 10 years, as of 2016). These minimum aging requirements are set by French law. However, many Cognacs are aged longer than the minimum requirements.
Scotch Whisky Age Statement:
Scotch whisky age statements refer to the minimum number of years the whisky has spent maturing in oak casks. The age statement represents the youngest whisky in the bottle but may also contain older whiskies.
The age statement is typically indicated by a number on the bottle label, such as 12 years, 18 years, or 25 years. Scotch whisky must be aged for a specific period according to the regulations of its category (e.g., single malt, single grain, blended Scotch), and this age statement is a key factor in defining the character and quality of the whisky.
In summary, the key difference is that in Cognac, the age statement represents the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend, while in Scotch whisky, it represents the minimum age of the whisky in the bottle. Additionally, the aging process and regulations for the two spirits are distinct, as Cognac and Scotch whisky are produced in different regions and follow their own specific aging and labeling requirements.
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